The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $220,000 civil penalty against Brim Aviation, Inc. of Ashland, Ore., for allegedly conducting unauthorized external load operations.

The FAA alleges that on June 26, 2013, Brim Aviation performed at least 20 flights with two MD-600 helicopters that involved carrying people in external load operations contrary to safety requirements of its flight manual. The FAA alleges Brim Aviation violated its flight manual by hoisting people using hooks that were designated only for non-human cargo and lacked the approved type of quick-release devices for this purpose.

The FAA further alleges the company used single-engine aircraft when its flight manual requires helicopters having at least two engines for such operations. The FAA alleges these operations were careless or reckless, and endangered the lives and property of others.

Brim Aviation has requested to meet with the FAA to discuss the case.