Alleges Brim Conducted Unauthorized External Load Operations, SkyWest Missed Required Inspections

The FAA is proposing a $220,000 civil penalty against Brim Aviation, Inc. of Ashland, OR for allegedly conducting unauthorized external load operations.

The FAA alleges that on June 26, 2013, Brim Aviation performed at least 20 flights with two MD-600 helicopters that involved carrying people in external load operations contrary to safety requirements of its flight manual. The FAA alleges Brim Aviation violated its flight manual by hoisting people using hooks that were designated only for non-human cargo and lacked the approved type of quick-release devices for this purpose.
 
The FAA further alleges the company used single-engine aircraft when its flight manual requires helicopters having at least two engines for such operations. The FAA alleges these operations were careless or reckless, and endangered the lives and property of others.

The agency is also proposing a $100,000 civil penalty against SkyWest Airlines, Inc. of St. George, UT for allegedly operating an aircraft that was not in compliance with federal aviation regulations.
 
The FAA alleges SkyWest failed to inspect critical parts of a Bombardier CL-600 jet at the required intervals.
 
On Feb. 10, 2011, the carrier completed a detailed inspection of certain elevator hinge fittings in accordance with its maintenance program. The next inspection was due on April 14, 2012. However, the FAA alleges SkyWest did not perform this inspection until February 1, 2013.
 
The FAA alleges SkyWest operated the aircraft on at least 525 flights when the inspection was overdue.

Both Brim Aviation and SkyWest have requested meetings with the FAA to discuss their cases.

FMI: www.faa.gov