ST. GEORGE, Utah, July 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has proposed a $1.23 million fine against SkyWest Airlines for allegedly failing to comply with safety regulations.
The total is comprised of two separate civil fines for failure to comply with two different regulations. Both were announced Friday.
In one notice, the FAA said the regional airline failed to inspect main landing gear components on four Bombardier CL-600 jets. The components could wear out, leading to unsafe conditions or the complete failure of a component.
"SkyWest allegedly operated the aircraft on more than 6,700 flights when the inspections were overdue," an FAA statement said. The fine for that alleged landing gear issue is $320,000.
Another $911,000 fine was proposed against the airline for allegedly failing to inspect cargo door skins on two Bombardier CL-600 jets. The door skins must be regularly inspected for cracking in the aluminum, which could lead to an accident.
The FAA said SkyWest allegedly operated 15,969 flights with overdue cargo door skin inspections.
"Safety is our top priority," said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. "We expect operators to comply fully with all FAA regulations and directives."
SkyWest is a regional airline for four of the five major U.S. airlines, including United, Delta, American/USAirways and Alaska Airways. The airline operates 341 aircraft on more than 1,800 flights each day.
SkyWest issued a statement saying it was "disappointed" with the proposed penalty.
"SkyWest has worked with the FAA to ensure that our aircraft procedures and appropriate checks are conducted as outlined within our maintenance program," the emailed statement said. "We are committed to ensuring every flight we operate is safe and we look forward to meeting with the FAA to review the claims in more detail."
