FAA Launches Probe into Crow Executive Air for Utilizing ‘Unqualified’ Pilots and Overlooking Equipment Checks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating allegations against Crow Executive Air Inc., accusing the Perrysburg, Ohio-based charter airline of employing “unqualified” pilots and neglecting mandatory equipment checks. The FAA has proposed a $67,500 civil penalty in response to these violations.

On Wednesday, the FAA announced its investigation into two major infractions by Crow Executive Air. The airline is reported to have allowed two unqualified pilots to operate flights carrying passengers. Details on how these pilots were deemed unqualified were not fully disclosed; however, FAA regulations typically require pilots to complete at least 40 hours of flight time and pass a medical evaluation by an FAA examiner to obtain a private pilot certificate.

These pilots reportedly managed ten flights for Crow, significantly breaching FAA safety standards. Additionally, the airline is under scrutiny for failing to conduct a necessary equipment check on a Cessna Citation jet, part of Crow’s fleet which also includes aircraft from manufacturers like Pilatus, Cirrus, and Beechcraft.

The issue came to light regarding overdue checks on a critical piece of navigation equipment essential for the safe operation of the flights. The FAA has not yet provided specific details about the nature of the equipment check that was omitted.

Crow Executive Air, known for its high-end services including private flights from Los Angeles to New York costing approximately $50,000, has been given a 30-day period from Wednesday to respond to the FAA’s enforcement letter.

Newsweek has reached out to both Crow Executive Air and the FAA to obtain further comments on the investigation and the specifics of the qualifications of the involved pilots and the missed equipment checks.

This investigation casts a spotlight on the rigorous standards and regulations enforced by the FAA to ensure the safety and reliability of aviation operations, reflecting the agency’s ongoing commitment to passenger safety.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, newsweek.com