Felony conviction!
 

I have a felony conviction of a non violent felony when I was 18, it was just a mistake at a young age, with the wrong crowd in high school and i have learned from it all. It is in the process of getting cleaned off my record and I have all the law enforcement and judges and so on backing me up on this matter to help me. I was in the middle of training during the time this happened and I'm wanting to know if I need to report it to the FAA before I finish my training and go for my check ride for my private. My 3rd class medical is still good and student licenses is still good. What do I need to do to finish up my privates??

Get an aviation attorney who understands the process.

Generally, a conviction might not preclude you from getting your certificates, (even the ATP where moral character is a requirement). but there may be some hoops.

If it wasn't drug-related, you won't have to report in on the 8710 when you take your private checkride, but probably will next time to get a medical certificate.

Also be aware that some felony crimes are disqualifying for airport employees due to TSA requirements (including airline pilots). If your crime happens to be on the list you are a non-starter for at least 7 years...google that list or look for it on any airline's career page.

Also be aware that even if you get it expunged or sealed or whatever, there is a significant chance that the airlines will still find out when they check your FBI database records (FBI does NOT expunge anything, ever, as far as I know). If you lie about something like that, they will fire when they find out later and you will be finished in 121 aviation.

Yeah, depending on the nature of crime, you will ber banned from travel to canada for 5-7 years (or forever). This will preclude your employment at most US airlines. You will only be employable at small operations which generally fly turboprops on domestic routes only.

The canadians are far more strict than the TSA....even a DUI will get you banned.

The Truth and Nothing But....
 

Excellent advice and Rickair, you are correct about the FBI database, to the best of my knowledge. In working with ALPA, the FBI, DHS and others on crew pass issues, I believe a felony conviction stays on your FBI record.

As for Flycritter, my only advice is DON'T lie about anything in your background as that, in and of itself, is a terminating offense at just about any carrier. Hire a good aviation attorney and follow their advice.

G'Luck Mate