SEATTLE The U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes a $420,000 civil penalty against Avion Research Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., for allegedly producing and advertising articles that werent authorized for installation on certificated aircraft.

The FAA alleges that Avion manufactured 63 glare shields that did not comply with federal aviation regulations for producing replacement or modification articles for FAA type?certificated aircraft. The FAA further alleges Avion knew the shields were reasonably likely to be installed on type?certificated aircraft. The FAA issues type certificates for aircraft that are manufactured according to an approved design that ensures compliance with airworthiness requirements.

Additionally, the FAA alleges that Avion advertised products on its website that were not authorized for installation on type?certificated aircraft. These products consisted of panels for certain Cessna 170 models and control wheels for certain Piper PA24 models. The FAA alleges Avion made a fraudulent or intentionally false statement that the products were acceptable for installation on such aircraft.

Whether its an aircraft manufacturer or a parts fabricator, everyone plays a critical role in aviation safety, said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. We expect everyone to comply with federal aviation regulations.

Avion has 30 days from the receipt of the FAAs enforcement letter to respond to the agency.