Grounded by the FAA? Here’s How an Aviation Attorney Can Help
The FAA holds the ultimate authority over pilots and aircraft operators. If you’ve been grounded or received notice of an FAA enforcement action, it can feel like your entire aviation career is on the line. Whether you’re an airline pilot, commercial pilot, private pilot, or operate under FAR Part 135, a skilled aviation attorney is critical to protecting your rights and license.
FAA Enforcement Actions: What Pilots Need to Know
The FAA investigates violations ranging from airspace incursions to falsified logbooks, pilot impairment, and maintenance failures. The most common enforcement actions include:
- Emergency suspensions
- Certificate revocations or suspensions
- Civil penalties
- Letter of investigation (LOI)
- Notice of Proposed Certificate Action
Each action comes with deadlines and procedures that require a strategic response. Many pilots attempt to handle these matters on their own and often end up making their situation worse. That’s where an aviation attorney becomes crucial.
The Role of an Aviation Attorney
An aviation attorney is a lawyer who understands both aviation regulations and the federal administrative process. When the FAA grounds you or initiates action, your attorney will:
- Respond to FAA letters and notices
- Represent you in investigations and hearings.
- File appeals to the NTSB if needed
- Present mitigating evidence and negotiate resolutions.
- Guide you through medical certification and reapplication issues.
These actions aren’t just procedural. Every step your lawyer takes aims to preserve your certificate and your flying future.
When Should You Contact an Aviation Attorney?
Don’t wait until it’s too late. The moment you receive an LOI or learn of an FAA investigation, call an aviation. You should also seek legal help if:
- You’re facing a DUI or drug-related charge (even outside flying)
- Your medical certificate is denied or deferred
- You’ve been involved in an accident or near miss
- You’re accused of falsifying records or flying unsafely
- You face discipline from your employer related to FAA regulations
Early legal intervention improves your chances of resolving the matter without suspension or revocation.
How the FAA Handles Pilot Violations
The FAA’s Compliance Program focuses on education and correction for unintentional violations. However, if the FAA believes your actions were reckless, intentional, or involve falsification, they will initiate formal enforcement. That means:
- LOI: A letter of investigation alerts you to an issue.
- Informal conference: You may be invited to discuss the matter with the FAA.
- Notice of Proposed Certificate Action: The FAA proposes suspension or revocation.
- Hearing before an NTSB judge: If you contest the FAA’s action, the matter goes to a hearing.
- Appeals: Unfavorable rulings can be appealed to the NTSB and federal courts.
Each of these steps has deadlines, evidence rules, and procedural complexity. You need someone on your side who speaks the language of aviation law.
Protecting Your FAA Medical Certificate
Many pilots are grounded due to issues with their medical certificates. Whether due to mental health history, substance use, or medical conditions, the FAA may deny or defer your application. An aviation attorney can assist with:
- Preparing and submitting supporting medical documentation
- Communicating with the FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
- Representing you in FAA appeals if your medical is denied
- Ensuring you comply with HIMS or other special issuance requirements
For many, their medical career is the foundation of their professional life. Don’t leave it to chance.
Defending Against FAA Certificate Action
In cases where the FAA seeks to suspend or revoke your certificate, your attorney will:
- Examine the FAA’s evidence
- Interview witnesses and gather your flight records
- Determine if the FAA followed due process.
- Challenge the FAA’s interpretation of facts or regulations.
- Argue for alternative sanctions or corrective action.
An experienced aviation attorney can find legal weaknesses in the FAA’s case and use procedural tools to your advantage.
Why Choose a Florida-Based Pilot Lawyer?
Aviation law is federal, but having a local Florida aviation attorney gives you an edge. They understand local airspace, regional FAA practices, and can appear for in-person conferences in your area.
At Thoele Drach, our legal team represents pilots across the country. We can help:
- Airline pilots retain their ATP
- Private pilots avoid license suspension
- Flight schools defend against FAA audits
- Clients with DUI charges protect their flying privileges
Learn more about our FAA enforcement defense services here. (Internal link)
Tips for Pilots Facing FAA Action
- Don’t respond to the FAA without legal advice. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Save all documents and flight records. This includes logbooks, ADS-B data, and audio recordings.
- Do not ignore FAA letters. Deadlines are short, and missing them can result in automatic loss of your certificate.
- Be proactive with your defense. A strong initial response can resolve many cases early.
Real Results from Legal Defense
Our attorneys can help pilots:
- Reduce suspension periods to written warnings
- Avoid certificate revocation after administrative errors
- Secure special issuance medicals with supporting expert evaluations
- Defend themselves after FAA surveillance or reporting from other pilots
Every case is unique. What matters most is getting skilled representation early.
Call Thoele Drach: Your FAA Enforcement Defense Team
If the FAA has grounded you, don’t wait to protect your career. You need a legal partner who understands both aviation and law. At Thoele Drach, our aviation attorneys are here to keep you safely flying.