FAA Seeks $304K From Southwest Over Alleged Testing Failures

Southwest Airlines is facing a proposed $304,272 fine from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which said the carrier failed to complete required follow-up drug and alcohol testing for 11 employees in safety-sensitive jobs.

The FAA announced the case on April 3, 2026 and said the alleged violations happened during different periods between August 2021 and July 2024. The employees included pilots, flight attendants, and aircraft mechanics.

FAA alleges Southwest missed mandatory follow-up testing

According to the FAA, the 11 employees had previously tested positive for substances including marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines. After that, they were subject to stricter monitoring under federal rules.

The agency alleges that Southwest did not complete all required follow-up tests even though those employees continued working in safety-sensitive roles.

Federal rules require long-term testing after a violation

US Department of Transportation rules require any worker who fails a drug or alcohol test to be removed from safety-sensitive duties. Before returning, the employee must be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional, complete any required treatment or education, and pass a return-to-duty test.

DOT rules also require at least six unannounced follow-up tests during the first 12 months after the employee returns to work. FAA rules allow that follow-up program to continue for as long as 60 months. The employer is responsible for making sure that testing happens.

Southwest has 30 days to respond as FAA sharpens oversight

The FAA has proposed the penalty, but it is not final yet. Southwest has 30 days after receiving the enforcement letter to respond. The airline can contest the allegations, negotiate a settlement, or resolve the case through the FAA’s normal enforcement process.

Regulators are paying closer attention not only to flight operations but also to the internal systems airlines use to manage compliance. The FAA is pushing a broader modernization program that would replace aging air traffic and communication systems, backed by a proposed $19 billion investment on top of earlier congressional funding.

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