Originally Posted by Michael9000

I foresee the operator/PIC taking a big hit on this one.

1. Violation of op-spec requirements which carry the weight of a FAR violation. Company could be facing suspension, revocation and/or fines.

2. Did he charge the passengers for a second pilot? = Fraud (and of course endangerment). This would prompt a full investigation of his flight activity to count the number of infractions. The FAA would have a field day with this and he could also be facing a long line of legal battles from the companies and passengers he defrauded.

3. Would an accident have occurred if a second qualified and required crewmember was on board? = Insurance company would certainly push some liability if not all upon the operator. That alone could become a nightmare in the legal system when the attorneys argue the "shouldof, wouldof, couldof" possibilities.

4. Since the PIC was also the operator, he will likely be facing revocation or suspension of his certificate not to mention the criminal liability he could also be facing.

5. Even if he survives the wrath of the FAA and legal system, he would never ever be able to find an insurance company who will sell him a policy to operate under. We're talking a claim of 3+million here. His future premiums would be unbearable for any charter company.