Unlicensed pilot charged with illegally flying helicopter from own backyard

BOSTON — An unlicensed helicopter pilot was charged in federal court on Thursday in connection to illegally flying a helicopter and making false statements to federal investigators.

Antonio Santonastaso, 59, of East Brookfield, is accused of illegally operating a Robinson R-22 helicopter - taking off and landing from his backyard - more than 50 times between April and November 2018.

According to the FAA, the path Santonastaso used was extremely dangerous.

Santonastaso, a formerly licensed helicopter pilot, had his license revoked by the FAA in 2000 after he participated in stealing a helicopter from Norwood Memorial Airport.

When questioned by FAA agents, Santonastaso repeatedly lied about his eligibility to fly the aircraft. He also told agents he didn't know the FAA had revoked his license and lied about his applications for a medical certificate, which is required in order to pilot an aircraft.

Santonastaso is being charged by criminal complaint with one count of serving as an airman without an airman certificate and one count of making false statements to federal agents.

If sentenced, Santonastaso is looking at up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

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