Source link : https://usa-news.biz/2024/12/06/alaska/alaska-pilot-faces-consequences-after-violating-aviation-regulations-a-high-flying-legal-battle/
Alaska Pilot Convicted of Aviation Violations
A federal jury in the District of Alaska has found veteran pilot William Marsan guilty of breaching several aviation regulations. With three decades of experience, this licensed airline transport pilot faced serious allegations from the United States Department of Justice.
Accusations and Evidence
Court evidence released on December 5, 2024, detailed the charges against Marsan. He operated an aviation business based in Palmer, Alaska, and owned a Piper Cherokee aircraft while holding his FAA-issued license for approximately 30 years.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that he was convicted for piloting without a valid license and flying an unregistered aircraft. Although jury members deliberated over charges involving a fraudulent registration number on his plane, they could not reach an agreement regarding that specific matter.
Official Statement
S. Lane Tucker, U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska commented on the case: “Aviation is foundational to our state’s transportation system. Mr. Marsan’s reckless disregard for pivotal safety regulations is unacceptable. This conviction should send a strong signal to anyone contemplating similar violations—they will be held accountable.”
FAA Investigation Details
An investigation commenced after the FAA received alarming reports in June 2023 about Marsan’s erratic behavior with his Piper Cherokee at Warren ‘Bud’ Woods Palmer Municipal Airport (PAQ). According to witnesses, he failed to notify air traffic control before taking off and proceeded to fly against approaching landing traffic—a near miss that could have ended in disaster.
The probe revealed that not only was he operating without current licensing or registration—he had also submitted paperwork to annul his aircraft’s registration back in June 2022—effectively grounding himself unlawfully. Furthermore, records traced his medical certification lapsing as far back as 2020 and 2021.
Evasive Actions Amidst Investigation
When questioned by FAA inspectors during their inquiry in July 2023, Marsan declined requests for essential documents including his airman certificate or proof of aircraft registration and airworthiness compliance—arguing such documentation wasn’t necessary according to him.
Consequences Faced by Marsan
The FAA ultimately responded with an Emergency Order revoking Marsan’s pilot license in January 2024; he was given ten days either to appeal this decision or relinquish his flying privileges immediately.
However, opting neither route allowed him continued access to aviation until July 2024 when he was taken into custody following initial arrest proceedings related to these infractions. Following temporary release pending trial expectations where he missed multiple court dates thereafter led him into further legal trouble with another arrest occurring in September 2024.
The post Alaska Pilot Faces Consequences After Violating Aviation Regulations: A High-Flying Legal Battle! first appeared on USA NEWS.
Author : Jean-Pierre CHALLOT
Publish date : 2024-12-06 17:13:41
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