The founder of defunct People Express Airlines is facing multiple financial crimes charges over the airline’s collapse.
Michael Morisi faces a total of 18 federal charges including wire fraud, conducting transactions in property derived from unlawful activity, and failing to file a tax return.
People Express Airlines launched at Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport in 2014 but was beset with problems almost immediately.
These included maintenance issues to both its aircraft.
The airport then evicted the airline after non-payment of airport fees.
Its collapse after only three months left hundreds of customers out of pocket.
The airport’s former executive director Ken Spirito was also indicted on various charges a week ago relating to a secret loan paid to the airline.
They relate to the misuse of public funds, amounting to an estimated $5.2 million.
Spirito was also charges with six counts of money laundering and providing false information to the FAA.
