The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken decisive action against Sawyer Aviation, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, by suspending its Part 135 certificate. The emergency order was issued due to the private jet charter carrier’s failure to meet required staffing levels, specifically the absence of a director of maintenance since October 21, 2023, and a chief pilot since December 1.
As a result of these deficiencies, Sawyer Aviation has been directed to immediately surrender its operating certificate. The FAA has also imposed a daily penalty of USD16,630 for any delay in complying with the order. The suspension will remain effective until Sawyer Aviation addresses these critical staffing gaps by hiring qualified personnel.
Sawyer Aviation specializes in private charter travel, aircraft management, and sales and acquisitions. Its fleet includes two Citation Jets and one Citation Jet 3+. The company has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the FAA’s recent actions.
This suspension underscores the FAA’s commitment to maintaining stringent safety standards within the aviation industry, particularly concerning the qualifications and presence of key personnel in operations.
