LOS ANGELES ¬ó Federal authorities are investigating if a California pilot who lost his flight privileges for buzzing the SantaMonica Pier four years ago illegally sold rides to the public in his military jet.
The Los Angeles Times reports Saturday that investigators are trying to determine if David Riggs violated federal regulations that prohibits passengers to be aboard the Soviet-era planes unless the owners have the government’s permission.
The newspaper says the inquiry of Riggs stems from a May 18 accident in Nevada when a L-39 Albatros crashed in the desert, killing the pilot and a passenger who had purchased a ride.
Riggs was flying with a passenger next to the ill-fated plane shortly before it crashed.
If Riggs violated regulations, he could face a suspension or another revocation of his pilot’s license.