Oct. 26--US Airways is facing a potential $354,500 fine from the Federal Aviation Administration over alleged improper maintenance procedures on a Boeing 757's fuel pump, the agency said.
According to the FAA, US Airways replaced a leaking fuel pump on a Boeing 757 in August 2010, but didn't carry out required tests and inspections before the airplane returned to the skies. The plane allegedly flew 916 times in the next five months while out of compliance.
"We are in the process of responding to the FAA and believe the flights were flown in compliance with applicable rules," said US Airways spokeswoman Michelle Mohr. The airline has 30 days to respond.
Tempe, Ariz.-based US Airways operates hundreds of flights per day from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the airline's busiest hub. US Airways and US Airways Express account for almost 90 percent of daily flights from Charlotte. The carrier's 757s carry up to 193 passengers.
The penalty this week was the second for the year against US Airways. In May, the FAA proposed a $395,850 penalty against US Airways for hazardous goods violations in 2010, in which the airline allegedly failed to follow proper transport procedures.
The FAA has issued maintenance-related fines to several major carriers recently.
In July, the FAA proposed a nearly $1 million fine for Delta Air Lines, for allegedly failing to repair a chipped nose cone and a broken cockpit light on two jets. And in August, it was reported the FAA could seek up to $162 million in fines from American Airlines due to long-running concerns about its maintenance.
Airlines typically negotiate fines with the FAA and often pay less than the proposed amount.
Portillo: 704-358-5041 On Twitter @ESPortillo
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