The Coast Guard Headquarters' Aircraft Operations
PLRD-83-45: Published: Mar 3, 1983. Publicly Released: Mar 15, 1983.
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In response to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the use of the Coast Guard's two administrative aircraft located at National Airport, Washington, D.C.
During fiscal year 1981, it cost almost $2.6 million to operate and maintain these aircraft. GAO found that: (1) the aircraft were used primarily to transport high-ranking Department of Transportation (DOT) and Coast Guard officials, as well as their spouses and guests to U.S. and overseas locations which are generally served more economically by commercial air transportation; (2) the majority of flights on these aircraft were for routine travel which did not appear to justify the use of noncommercial transportation; and (3) a number of the flights were made with only a few passengers on board, with no justifications, which conflicts with Coast Guard aircraft instructions.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Status: Closed - Implemented
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: The Secretary of Transportation should require Transportation and Coast Guard officials to use more economical commercial airline service to the maximum extent possible consistent with important mission accomplishment. For those instances where commercial airlines cannot be used, arrangements should be made for the officials to use aircraft of the Federal Aviation Administration, the 89th Airlift Wing, other Federal Government, or private commercial aircraft.
Agency Affected: Department of Transportation
Status: Closed - Implemented
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: The Secretary of Transportation should issue a written policy generally prohibiting the transporting of spouses, dependents, and other nonofficial travelers on Transportation aircraft.
Agency Affected: Department of Transportation
Status: Closed - Implemented
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: The Secretary of Transportation should direct the Coast Guard to dispose of the two aircraft at National Airport through normal disposal practices. Coast Guard personnel assigned to support these aircraft should be reassigned where needed.
Agency Affected: Department of Transportation
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