A pilot or an A&P mechanic is subject to have his or her certificate suspended or revoked if entries in logbooks made by them are found to be invalid, whether the entries were wrong intentionally or accidentally. The F.A.R.s negatively sanction invalid logbook entries and, where such entries are made, there may be an allegation of "intentional falsification."

Worse yet, although the F.A.A. theoretically has the burden of proof, it may be very difficult, if not impossible, to disprove suspected fraudulent entries. Of course, this can mean incurring significant legal expenses trying to save your certificate and could equate to some down time if your certificate is suspended or revoked, perhaps, on an emergency basis. Furthermore, if your livelihood is dependant upon your valid certificate, you could lose your bread and butter.

If you or an aircraft with which you are involved has inaccurate logbook entries and an incident or accident occurs (your logs are certain to be checked), it may lead to a finding of legal liability with grave consequences. Accordingly, it is simply not worth the potential risks to allow an invalid logbook entry.

by Richard T. Miller, Specialist in Aviation Law - (818) 895-8234

Read more aviation articles by Richard T. Miller:

Due Process: F.A.A. Enforcement F.A.A. Certificate Enforcement: Emergency Means You Have Little Time to Act F.A.A. Sanctions: Look for the S.A.A.P., F.A.A. Complaints: Staleness Can Be Good F.A.A. Violations: Standard Careless & Reckless Behavior F.A.A. : Please Do Not Confess F.A.A. Inspectors and Ramp Cooperation F.A.A. Reaction to DUI F.A.A. : Have You Filed Your NASA Report? F.A.A. : Be Sure to Check for TSRs

Aviation Pre-flight Checks Aviation Rentals and Inspections - Renter Requirements Aviation Accidents, When to Report F.A.A. and Inaccurate Logbook Entries F.A.A. and Keeping Paperwork "Clean" F.A.A. and Pilot Medical Examinations Do Not Voluntarily Surrender the Cerificate: The Bob Hoover Debacle Aviation and Insurance - Don't Go It Alone Pilot Warranty and Aviation Liability - Sometimes Cause Doesn't Matter

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