The F.A.A., through its inspectors, has another way of imposing sanctions: via the Streamlined Administrative Action Process (S.A.A.P.). Rather than sending a Notice of Investigation letter with ten (10) days to respond, the inspector will mail a Warning Notice or a Letter of Correction. Technically, this is an administrative sanction but does not result in a fine, suspension or revocation. Nevertheless, it will be a black mark on the record which could be problematic if seeking employment in the aviation industry, and the mark will remain on the record for at least two (2) years.

Once such a S.A.A.P. letter is received, the airman has thirty (30) days to respond with explanatory input and/or documentation. With this, a request can be made to withdraw the Warning Notice or Letter of Correction. Otherwise, there is no provision in S.A.A.P. or the so-called “ticket program” for the procedural due process afforded in the normal enforcement process.

Nevertheless, the minor sanction is usually preferable to a monetary penalty or worse. So, if you can demonstrate a positive and cooperative attitude, you may be able to convince the inspector to use S.A.A.P. instead of an enforcement action which would probably be best for all concerned if a minor infraction has occurred.

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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