The US Department of Transportation has handed down a fine of $30,000 to SeaPort Airlines for violating several Essential Air Service contracts.
DOT said the airline pulled out of several markets ahead of a mandatory 90-day notice period.
SeaPort withdrew early from Greenville, Muscle Shoals, Tupelo, Great Bend, Salina, El Centro/Imperial, CA and Visalia, CA.
In mitigation, SeaPort blamed its financial problems and a pilot shortage which ultimately led to a bankruptcy filing as the reason for scrapping flights early.
"While the Department recognizes SeaPort’s staffing difficulties, it cannot overlook SeaPort’s noncompliance with DOT orders and the full and formal 90-day notice requirements," a DOT statement said.
"The compromise assessment is appropriate considering the nature and extent of the violations described herein and serves the public interest. It establishes a strong deterrent against future similar unlawful practices by SeaPort and other carriers."
