The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an Emergency Order of Revocation against MARPAT Aviation of Switzer, W. Va. for allegedly violating Federal Aviation Regulations related to holding a Rotorcraft External-Load Operator Certificate.

The FAA alleges MARPAT conducted external load operations in support of firefighting when it was not qualified to do so. External load operations involve using cables to hoist, lower and carry objects or people.

According to the FAA, the company failed to have a qualified chief pilot, falsified an application for renewal of its Rotorcraft External-Load Operator Certificate and refused to comply with repeated FAA instructions to amend its flight manual. The company operated the aircraft in a careless or reckless manner that endangered lives or property, the FAA alleges.

The Emergency Order of Revocation is effective immediately, and the company cannot conduct external load flights while the emergency order is in effect.

MARPAT surrendered its certificate.