US Connect Airlines Faces Certification Revocation by DoT

In a recent development, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) has taken the decisive step of revoking the certification of Waltzing Matilda Aviation (WMA), the operator behind Connect Airlines. The DOT cited various reasons, including the failure to initiate flights within 12 months of certification issuance and the application of default dormancy provisions.

WMA, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licensed Part 135 private jet operator, had aspirations to launch Connect Airlines, a regional Part 121 carrier connecting Canada’s Toronto Billy Bishop City Centre with US northeast airports. The DOT had granted certification for this venture in July 2022. However, the recent revocation has taken WMA by surprise. WMA CEO John Thomas expressed that the revocation doesn’t prevent the company from reapplying.

“Connect’s focus has been on securing FAA Certification, and we have fully demonstrated the ability to safely operate an airline while providing additional third-party validation to support our ongoing application,” stated Thomas. He emphasized Connect Airlines’ commitment to meeting all requirements with US regulators, highlighting their ambition to become the first North American airline to operate zero-emission aircraft.

The DOT’s decision was influenced by WMA’s request for a dormancy provisions waiver in June 2023, seeking an extension until October 5. Despite granting an extension until August 4, the DOT required WMA to demonstrate progress towards commencing scheduled flights. WMA’s response on the same day fell short of the DOT’s expectations, lacking essential financial information and verification of funding, including completion of Series B funding or equivalent US citizen capital contributions.

The DOT underscored that the FAA had terminated WMA’s certification activities effective September 11, 2023. Citing regulations, the DOT justified its decision to deny the waiver and revoke WMA’s certificate authority due to dormancy. The DOT clarified that its decision is without prejudice, allowing WMA to refile an application for certification. However, given WMA’s history, future applications will necessitate third-party verification of required capital, financial fitness, and citizenship.