A South Dakota helicopter ambulance servicer was investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for retaliating against a whistleblower. The mechanic reported safety concerns and filed a complaint with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
OSHA examined the mechanic's complaint against Avera Careflight in Sioux Falls after the company terminated their employment. OSHA found that the company's actions violated the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century, and ordered them to reinstate the mechanic. In addition, OSHA directed Avera Careflight to pay the employee more than $30,600 in back wages and $25,000 in damages and to remove negative reports from their personnel record.