A Delta pilot has been grounded and is facing federal charges after hiding the fact he was suffering from a ‘major depressive disorder.’
Adam Asleson, 39, is accused of making false or misleading statements to the Federal Aviation Administration for not disclosing he was receiving disability benefits for a mental disorder from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Northern District of California U.S Attorney’s Office alleges he told the FAA that he received the benefitsonly for a physical medical conditions related to a knee strain and tinnitus.
U.S Attorney’s Office said he had indicated ‘he did not suffer from any mental disorders including depression or anxiety despite having represented to the VA that he suffered from major depressive disorder.’
"Delta pilots are held to the highest standards of professionalism, honesty and integrity. Once made aware of the situation, we opened an internal investigation and are working cooperatively with the authorities. The pilot in question is no longer actively flying," Delta said.
Asleson is potentially facing a prison sentence of five years and a $250,000 fine.
He was released on a $10,000 bond and is back in federal court next month.
