What is an FAA letter of investigation?

Have you received a FAA Letter of Investigation? A Letter of Investigation from the FAA is sent when the FAA has cause to suspect a violation of Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), or a hot line call has been made. Examples of Violations of FAR can include: failure to report a DUI on your medical application.



An FAA Letter of Investigation (LOI) is a formal notification sent to a pilot, mechanic, or aviation entity stating that the Federal Aviation Administration is looking into a potential violation of Federal Aviation Regulations. Receiving an LOI can be incredibly stressful for a professional. It essentially says, "We have information suggesting you did something wrong, and we are giving you a chance to explain your side." It is the first step in an enforcement action. The recipient usually has 10 days to respond. Legal experts often advise pilots to be very careful with their response, as anything said can be used as evidence. It doesn't automatically mean you will lose your license—it could lead to a simple warning letter, a fine, or a suspension, depending on the severity of the incident and how the pilot handles the investigation.

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With Legal Enforcement Actions, airmen have extensive appellate rights. Administrative Enforcement Actions may take the form of a Letter of Correction or a Warning Notice which can stay on your record for two years. With Administrative Enforcement Actions, airmen have no appeal rights.

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To a certain extent, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the judge, jury, and executioner when it comes to all matters dealing with civil aviation. If you are involved in an accident or incident, the FAA will investigate your actions to determine if administrative or legal action will be pursued against you.

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Criminal Background Check Required
  • Aircraft piracy.
  • Aircraft piracy outside the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.
  • Armed robbery.
  • Assault with intent to murder.
  • Carrying a weapon or explosive aboard an aircraft.
  • Commission of certain crimes aboard aircraft in flight.
  • Conveying false information and threats.


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But, sooner or later, most pilots will develop a medical condition that they cannot hide. When that happens, your whole medical history will come under review. If you ever need to submit medical records to the FAA, they will review everything you give them.

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Some of the most commonly violated airline regulations include the following: Expired licenses: Just like a driver's license, pilot licenses can expire. It is imperative that both pilots and the airlines who employ them ensure that all licenses are up-to-date and valid.

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