Allegation: Company Used Unqualified Pilots Who Did Not Complete Required Training, Testing, And Competency Checks

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes a $617,100 civil penalty against Oklahoma-based Interstate Helicopters for allegedly conducting illegal charter flights.

The FAA alleges that between September 2016 and April 2017, Interstate Helicopters conducted approximately 24 paid passenger-carrying flights in jet airplanes when it was only authorized to conduct flights in helicopters.

The FAA further alleges the company used unqualified pilots who did not complete required training, testing, and competency checks for the 24 flights.

Indeed; the company's website only states that, "Interstate Helicopters, Inc. Charters are a highly versatile means of travel, allowing you to land or take off from remote areas or city center helipads; any location can be reached with ease. Small Helicopter charters or leasing are ideal for flights of up to 1 or 2 hours while larger helicopters can cover up to 2 or more hours depending on your specific needs." There is no mention of fixed-wing aircraft services.

Interstate Helicopters has 30 days to respond to the FAA after receiving the letter.

FMI: www.faa.gov, https://robinsonhelicopterdealers.com