Airline Pilot Central Forums - FAA proposes to fine UPS $4M

The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed a $4 million fine against UPS for allegedly maintaining four cargo planes improperly.

The FAA alleged Wednesday that UPS did not follow FAA-approved procedures for structural repairs to two DC-8 planes and two MD-11 planes, and used them to operate more than 400 flights from October 2008 to June 2009.

UPS called the penalty “unwarranted and unreasonable,” saying it “has a long history of operating a safe, compliant airline.” The shipping giant is based in Sandy Springs, while its airline is based in Louisville, Ky.

In a written statement, UPS said the penalty related to documentation of repairs on four aircraft, adding: “There was never a safety issue. We believe we were compliant with FAA rules and will vigorously defend our position.”

According to the FAA, the proposed fine comes after previous compliance problems in 2008, which led to a consent agreement in which UPS agreed to inspect aircraft and compare actual repairs with maintenance records for three years.

The FAA alleged UPS did not fully comply with the terms of the consent agreement, which would have ensured the four planes were in compliance.

“Air carriers must comply with federal regulations to ensure aircraft are maintained to the highest level of safety,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a written statement.

The $4 million figure is a proposed civil penalty, and UPS has 30 days to respond to the FAA.