THE United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed US$2.9 million in civil penalties against Asia Pacific Airlines (APA) in connection with what the carrier says is an unresolved legal dispute with the authority over alleged regulatory issues in 2022.

In a statement on April 10, the FAA listed several alleged violations by Guam-based APA, including using unqualified pilots on 163 flights, operating flights without proper authorization, conducting flights with equipment issues, and failing to document engine monitoring and safety assessments. The airline has 30 days to respond to the enforcement letters.

APA president Adam Ferguson said the airline had "resolved these issues over 11 months ago, working with the agency and our technical partners.

"APA understood that a full settlement had been negotiated with the FAA and was surprised to receive these notices. Every aspect of APA's operations - from training to manuals to maintenance - is reviewed and approved by FAA inspectors.

"Last month, the FAA, as well as an independent third-party technical auditor, conducted an evaluation of APA operations which came out flawless."

Mr Ferguson added: "APA is the only airline providing essential cargo service to isolated Pacific islands, including the delivery of food, medicine, mail, and goods. We have safely operated without accident or incident for over 25 years. We look forward to quickly resolving these notices with the FAA."

Asked to respond to APA's comment, an FAA said the authority had nothing to add at this time.