FAA revokes certificates for pilots involved in failed Red Bull plane swap

The Federal Aviation Administration this week revoked pilot certificates for the two men involved in a Red Bull-sponsored plane swap that resulted in a crash last month.

Luke Aikins, the lead pilot for the stunt, had requested an FAA exemption in February from a federal law requiring that aircraft be manned by a pilot at all times. He argued in his request that the planned plane swap was in the "public interest" as it was meant to raise awareness for science, technology, engineering and math fields and encourage students to pursue careers in STEM.

But two days before the stunt, the FAA denied Aikins' request, saying it "would not be in the public interest and cannot find that the proposed operation would not adversely affect safety."

Despite the rejection, Aikins and partner Andy Farrington, who is also his cousin, went on to attempt the plane swap on April 24 — while they were being live-streamed online — but they failed, causing one of the single-engine Cessnas to crash. Neither pilot was harmed.

The FAA described their behavior as "careless or reckless so as to endanger the life or property of another," according to letters to both men dated Tuesday, notifying them of the revocations.

The agency also proposed a $4,932 fine against Aikins for "abandoning his pilot’s seat and operating an aircraft in a reckless manner."

Red Bull said in a statement on Thursday that "this is a matter between the Federal Aviation Administration and the two pilots. Luke and Andy are courageous, highly skilled athletes who have been friends of Red Bull for many years and we look forward to their continued friendship."

Aikins and Farrington did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In a previous statement on social media, Aikins said he would be cooperating with the agency in its review and acknowledged that "as project lead and chief pilot, it was entirely my responsibility to operate within the regulatory framework to ensure a successful outcome."

He said then that he was aware of the FAA's denial of his exemption before attempting the swap: "I made the personal decision to go forward ... I regret not sharing this information with my team and those who supported me."

Both pilots must surrender their pilot certificates "immediately," the FAA said this week. Because of this, both Aikins and Farrington cannot fly legally.

The agency noted, however, that an appeals process is available for the revocations and that Aikins could participate in an "informal conference" regarding the possible fine.

He and Farrington cannot apply for or be issued new airman certificates for one year.