FAA proposed $317,500 civil penalty against United Air Lines

The U.S Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $317,500 civil penalty against United Air Lines, Inc. of Chicago, Ill., for allegedly operating an aircraft that was not in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations.

The FAA alleges that on January 19, 2013, United mechanics removed and replaced a nose landing gear wheel and tire on a Boeing 767 without installing a required axle washer. The Boeing and United maintenance manuals warn that the wheel bearing can fail if the washer is not installed. An FAA inspector discovered the missing washer during a routine inspection.

United allegedly operated the aircraft on 35 passenger flights when the washer was missing. The aircraft was not in an airworthy condition during those flights, the FAA alleges.

United has requested to meet with the FAA to discuss the case.