Galveston Pilot DWI Attorney

Defending Clients in Southeast Texas

Driving while under the influence has harsh consequences for anyone but especially those who operate airplanes. The Federal Aviation Administration and the government establish strict guidelines for pilots, and the punishment for violating the law can end a person’s career.

Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC understands what is at stake for pilots facing DWI charges and we offer a variety of legal services to help our clients protect their futures. Our team of nationally recognized attorneys can create a personalized legal strategy based on our client’s needs and support them throughout the trial. We stand with our clients every step of the way and work tirelessly to give them the guidance they need.

Call our Galveston pilot DWI attorney at (409) 204-5566 to learn more.

FAA Reporting Guidelines

The Federal Aviation Administration requires registered pilots to report drug or alcohol-related actions to the Security and Hazardous Materials Safety Office, Regulatory Investigations Division. According to the Code of Federal Regulations Part 61 certificate holders must submit their report within 60 days of any violation. Reports are also called notification letters and require pilots to describe the motor vehicle action.

Motor vehicle actions are any violations of federal or state law involving the operation of a motor vehicle that includes drug or alcohol use during or before the operation of a motor vehicle including planes.

Reportable convictions include:

• Driving while impaired
• Driving with an unlawful blood alcohol level
• Driving under the influence
• Operating while under the influence

Any of the above offenses are punishable through administrative actions. These actions include:

• Administrative per se orders
• Express consent revocation or suspension
• 10-day civil revocations
• Revocation, cancellation, or suspension of a driver’s license for chemical test failure/refusal

In some cases, after the initial notification letter is submitted, a second notification letter may be required if the airman is convicted for driving under the influence or otherwise operated a vehicle while intoxicated. Additional reports must be submitted within 60 days of any prior convictions.

If a pilot fails to submit the notification letter within the 60-day period, they could face denial of any application or certification for up to one year after the motor vehicle action. Additionally, the FAA could suspend or revoke any certificate or authorization if the pilot does not follow reporting guidelines.

What Happens After a Report?

Once a pilot files the MVA report, it will be reviewed and put under a preliminary investigation. The investigation will prove whether the applicant committed any further infractions during the 60-day period.

As mentioned previously, failure to report could result in a Letter of Investigation which gives the pilot the option to report the MVA or continue to fail to comply. The FAA will discover MVAs even if the pilot does not report them. Form 8500-8, Application for Airmen Medical includes a provision which authorizes the sharing of driving records with the FAA. This includes sharing DWI arrest and conviction information.

Protect Your Future

If you are a pilot facing penalties for a DWI or other violation, you must contact a qualified attorney. Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC understands the risks associated with these violations including the potential revocation of a pilot’s license in some extreme cases. It is important to understand that you have rights, and our firm can help you protect them and your future.

Schedule a consultation with our Galveston pilot DWI attorneytoday for more information.