A pilot at Avion Express flew commercial flights across Europe using forged captain credentials, bypassing simulator checks and experience requirements for months before a routine audit uncovered the fraud. The individual had previously served as a co-pilot for Garuda Indonesia. The case highlights risks in document verification for wet-lease operations, which supply crews to multiple airlines, including Eurowings. Avion Express confirmed the pilot is no longer employed and launched an internal investigation focused on safety and compliance.
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Fake Pilot Exposed After Flying Passengers Across Europe, How?
Jan 27, 2026 | Occupational Fraud
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