Can I become a pilot with a misdemeanor?
Can I become a pilot with a misdemeanor? While it can be scary to deal with criminal convictions, it's important to know that a misdemeanor conviction does not necessarily mean you won't be able to fly. Nothing in aviation is guaranteed. For every rule there is a way to appeal the rule.
How far back do airlines do background checks?
All airlines will administer a 10-year FBI background check. These cases are evaluated individually.
Does the FAA care about misdemeanors?
Getting a FAA medical certificate with a misdemeanor on your record is not impossible. Oftentimes a single misdemeanor conviction may not be significant to your eligibility for FAA medical certification, meaning that deferral by your Aviation Medical Examiner (“AME”) won't be warranted.
What criminal charges disqualify you from being a pilot?
Extortion, smuggling, robbery, arson, or bribery. Rape or aggravated sexual abuse. Kidnapping or hostage-taking. Assault with intent to kill or voluntary manslaughter.
Do they run your name at the airport?
They are typically not running warrant checks on everyone that comes through the airport. Still, there are numerous security guidelines and regulations that must be followed. If you break the rules, you could get in trouble with the police, and they will probably find out about your warrants.