Well, it finally happened. The FAA has yanked pilot Jim Sheaffer's ticket for citing numerous violations. And rightly so. The man's careless disregard for proper flight planning alone should merit the action. The certificate has been suspended for at least a year, but Sheaffer can reapply after passing both written and practical tests.

The FAA said, "Your operation of civil aircraft N5826G under these circumstances demonstrates either a complete disregard or lack of understanding of basic requirements for the safe operation of aircraft...These failures establish that you lack the qualifications necessary to hold an airman certificate."

The AOPA indicates that Schaeffer hired a Washington DC attorney to represent him as he will likely appeal the ruling. No action was taken against the student pilot, Troy Martin, as he was considered a passenger in the aircraft.

So, what do you think? Should punitive action have been taken against Sheaffer? If so, what do you think of the penalty? Personally, I think it's fair. He could not have been let off without some type of action being taken. At the same time, to permanently revoke his license would have been overkill.

Hopefully, this is a lesson each of us can learn. And, what the heck, he'll probably get a book and movie deal out of the incident!