Alleges Failure To Properly Train Aircraft Mechanics

The FAA is proposing a $425,000 civil penalty against Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., for failing to comply with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) related to training aircraft mechanics.

An FAA inspection determined that some mechanics did not complete required training within time limits established in its FAA-approved training manual, and they missed numerous training deadlines. Additionally, after reviewing employee training records, FAA inspectors could not determine whether some of the employees completed training, or whether the records were inaccurate. The FAA also alleges that Gulfstream allowed mechanics to maintain aircraft when they had not completed required training.
 
FAA inspections in November 2009 and March 2010 initially identified the training discrepancies. During a June 2010 follow-up inspection, the FAA determined that Gulfstream’s corrective actions were insufficient to address systemic training and recordkeeping issues.
 
“Training is a critical component of a safe aviation system,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. “Operators must ensure that mechanics meet all FAA training requirements before working on complex jet aircraft.”

The FAA alleges that the violations compromised safety since mechanics maintained aircraft without receiving required recurrent training.
 
Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA’s Civil Penalty letter to respond to the agency.

FMI: www.faa.gov, www.gulfstream.com