FAA Civil Penalties for Drug Abatement Violations

FAA civil penalties for drug abatement violations can put a big dent in a small company’s pocketbook. If you are an air carrier or other certificate holder which is required to conduct DOT drug and alcohol testing for “safety sensitive” employees, the FAA can levy civil penalties for violations of regulatory, testing requirements. Specifically, companies that conduct DOT drug and alcohol testing are required to comply with the requirements of 14 C.F.R. Part 120 and 49 C.F.R. Part 40 for their drug and alcohol testing programs. (more…)

FAA is Unable to Establish Your Medical Eligibility

Did you receive a letter stating that the FAA is unable to establish your medical eligibility? This language is not particularly a cause for alarm. The FAA may conduct a reexamination of your eligibility to hold a medical certificate pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §67.413. This regulation authorizes the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine to request additional medical information whenever the Administrator finds that such information is necessary to determine whether you meet the medical standards required to hold a medical certificate. (more…)

Drone Operations Near Super Bowl LV

Drone Operations near the Super Bowl LV could lead to substantial fines from the FAA. Many novice and hobbyist Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or “drone” operators may be in for a big shock if caught operating a drone in defiance of the FAA’s Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) during the Super Bowl LV. On February 7, 2021, from 5:30 p.m. to 11:59 EST, the FAA will prohibit the use of drones within a 30-nautical-mile radius of the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (more…)

FAA HIMS Step Down Protocol

In August of 2020, the FAA introduced the HIMS step down protocol for airman who hold a medical certificate pursuant to a special issuance authorization for “substance dependence.” In theory, the step down protocol works two ways for airmen on a “substance dependence” special issuance. In some regards, the new protocol works to eliminate the frequency of a costly, HIMS psychiatric evaluation, time-consuming aftercare requirements, and other monitoring requirements, faster than would otherwise be required. (more…)