We are pleased to announce a victory before the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Hearings.

Background: the FAA had assessed our client, a major air carrier, a civil penalty sanction in the amount of $165,000, alleging violations of 14 CFR Sections 119.5 and 121.693 for failing to comply with the carrier's Operation Specifications (specifically, baggage loading procedures). Our office appealed the Administrator's Order and a hearing was held in late 2012.

On May 6, 2013 the Administrative Law Judge found that the FAA failed to prove 60% of the alleged violations and assessed a penalty of $1,250 (or 0.007% of the sought after penalty).