At Kallio Law Firm, LLC, we understand and empathize with the anxiety associated with receiving a Letter of Investigation (LOI) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Serving the aviation community throughout the greater Baton Rouge area, our firm is well-versed in aviation law, including FAA enforcement actions. In this content, we will focus on demystifying the LOI process, outlining the critical factors involved in FAA enforcement actions, and explaining why our lead attorney, Eric Kallio, is a particularly powerful legal advocate in these matters.
Eric has impressive credentials in the field of aviation, including an Airline Transport Pilot certificate for helicopters and commercial and instrument ratings for single and multi-engine airplanes as well as being a certified flight instructor, instrument instructor and multi-engine instructor. He is also an Airframe and powerplant mechanic with an Inspection Authorization In fact, he ran an aircraft mechanic training program while putting himself through law school. Well-versed in both aviation law and aeronautics, Eric provides superior legal counsel and representation.
What Is a Letter of Investigation?
An LOI from the FAA serves as a formal notification that the agency is investigating a possible violation of aviation regulations. It is crucial to understand that receiving an LOI does not mean that a violation has been determined. Rather, it signifies the beginning of an investigative process during which the FAA will gather information to assess whether regulations have been breached.
Upon receipt of an LOI, individuals or entities are given the opportunity to present their side of the story. The letter will detail the specifics of the alleged violation and request a response, usually within a specified time frame. How one responds to an LOI can significantly impact the outcome of the FAA’s investigation. This is where the assistance of a strong aviation attorney is invaluable.
Important Factors in an FAA Enforcement Action
FAA enforcement actions can range from informal counseling to civil penalties or the suspension or revocation of certificates. Several factors influence the course and severity of enforcement actions, including:
- The nature and severity of the violation in terms of posing significant safety risks.
- History of past compliance — a clean record usually results in greater leniency.
- Proactive corrective actions taken to correct and prevent future violations may favorably influence the outcome.
- Willfulness of the violation — deliberate violations are met with stricter penalties.
How Should an FAA Enforcement Action Defense Be Handled?
An FAA enforcement action requires a strategic and informed approach. Contact our office now so our capable aviation law attorney can:
- Have an immediate consultation with you to determine how he can best protect your rights and interests
- Gather and review all relevant evidence and documentation
- Develop a well-crafted response strategy
As soon as you contact us, you will feel the reassurance that comes from having a talented professional in your corner.
What Are FAA Emergency Orders?
The FAA may issue emergency orders in situations deemed to pose an immediate safety threat. These orders can include the immediate suspension of certificates or imposition of emergency restrictions. Recipients of such orders have limited time to respond or contest the action, making swift legal guidance essential.
FAA Penalties
FAA penalties can vary widely, depending on the nature of the violation and the factors mentioned earlier. Penalties may include:
- Civil fines: monetary penalties
- Suspension of certificates: temporary removal of operating privileges
- Revocation of certificates: permanent removal of operating privileges.
It’s important to note that the FAA’s enforcement actions and penalties are federal in nature, and while the general process is consistent across the U.S., local FAA offices may have slight procedural variations.
FAA Appeals
Individuals and entities have the right to appeal FAA enforcement actions. Appeals can be made to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and, subsequently, to the federal court system. An appeal must be based on arguments such as procedural errors, incorrect application of law, or factual disputes. The appeals process underscores the importance of a robust defense strategy from the outset.
Choose Kallio Law Firm for Cases Involving LOIs From the FAA
When you are dealing with a legal matter involving aviation law, it is critical to have a lawyer who specializes in, and has an affinity for, this particular discipline. At Kallio Law Firm, we offer all the legal services you need:
- Personalized legal strategy
- Experience with the FAA and the formal appeals process
- Local insight into the regional aviation community and its interaction with the FAA
- Commitment to, and empathy with, each client
Contact Kallio Law Firm and Put Your Mind at Ease
Navigating an FAA enforcement action can be daunting, but with the right legal guidance, the process can be managed with minimal stress. Whether you are responding to a Letter of Investigation, facing an enforcement action, or considering an appeal, Kallio Law Firm is here to support you every step of the way. The sooner you get in touch with us, the sooner you can relax, knowing that you are partnering with an attorney who couldn’t be more well-suited to the job.
Kallio Law Firm, LLC helps people with LOI’s from the FAA in Ascension Parish, Baton Rouge, and Prairieville, Louisiana.
