March 19, 2001

U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Aviation Administration
800 Independence Ave. SW.
Washington, DC 20591

Mr. Tim Hafer
205 Monte Diablo Avenue, #8B
San Mateo, CA 94401

Dear Mr. Hafer:

This responds to your report to the FAA's Aviation Safety Hotline of your concerns about signoffs for maintenance performed on United Airlines aircraft. An investigation was conducted by the FAA Certificate Management Office (CMO) which is responsible for surveillance of United's operations and maintenance. CMO Inspectors confirmed the following.

United Airlines has Maintenance Planning Analysts who are responsible for updating deferred callouts and log items into United's Aircraft Maintenance Information System (AMIS). This is done after the records are signed off by maintenance personnel, as outlined in the United Operations Manual.

During the course of the investigation, FAA Inspectors did find some inconsistencies between the original documents and electronic records in the AMIS. Inspectors from the CMO will continue working with United personnel to ensure these inconsistencies are eliminated and all policies and regulations are followed.

The Inspectors emphasized their appreciation that you took the time to advise the FAA of your concerns. Reports such as yours can assist the FAA in their surveillance of the aviation industry, and can sometimes provide information FAA Inspectors may not be aware of through their routine surveillance. We appreciate and share your concern.

Sincerely,