FAA Proposing $425,000 Fine for Atlantic Southeast Airlines

ATLANTA – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $425,000 civil penalty against Atlantic Southeast Airlines (ASA), of Atlanta, for allegedly operating two Bombardier CRJ regional jet airliners when they were not in compliance with FAA regulations.

The FAA alleges that ASA, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. and flying as Delta Connection, failed to complete required inspections of the two aircraft after they were struck by lightning. One strike took place on July 21, 2008 and the other on July 23, 2008.

The FAA alleges that ASA operated the two aircraft on a total of 13 revenue passenger flights between July 22 and 24 when they were not in compliance with regulations. FAA regulations require the carrier to conduct and document the detailed check for lightning strike damage mandated in the airline’s aircraft maintenance manual. An FAA air safety inspector discovered both alleged violations.

“All operators must comply with maintenance regulations and requirements in a timely fashion,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt.

Atlantic Southeast has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency.