FAA Proposes $170,000 Fine Against Sonoma County Airport for Alleged Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting and Wildlife Inspection Violations

WASHINGTON - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes a $170,000 civil penalty against the Charles M. Schultz Sonoma County Airport (STS) in California for allegedly violating aircraft rescue and firefighting and wildlife inspection requirements.

The FAA alleges STS did not provide the required personnel and vehicles for aircraft rescue and firefighting coverage for two passenger flights in March 2025 as required by its FAA approved Airport Certification Manual, nor did STS notify the airline of the lack of coverage.

In addition, the FAA alleges that for one of the flights above, STS failed to perform runway inspections for deer and other wildlife before the first flight of the day as required by its FAA approved wildlife hazard management plan.

Sonoma County Airport has 30 days after receiving the FAA's notice to respond to the agency.