ATLANTA – The Federal Aviation Administration levied a $425,000 fine against Atlanta-based Atlantic Southeast Airlines (ASA), alleging the company operated a pair of jets that were “not in compliance with FAA regulations.”
Federal officials contend ASA “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.”
Between July 22 and July 24, 2008, the airline flew the Bombardier CRJ regional jets on 13 passenger flights.
“FAA regulations require the carrier to conduct and document the detailed check for lightning strike damage mandated in the airline’s aircraft maintenance manual,” the FAA said in a statement. “An FAA air safety inspector discovered both alleged violations.”
“All operators must comply with maintenance regulations and requirements in a timely fashion,” FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt said in a news release.
ASA has 30 days to appeal the fine. A subsidiary of SkyWest Inc., ASA flies as Delta Connection.