The head of the NYPD aviation unit has been removed from his position after a federal investigation into a serious incident.
Winston Faison, the formerly respected commander, faced allegations of multiple safety violations as he sought to be the unit’s lead helicopter instructor, according to a whistleblower.
When FAA inspectors unexpectedly arrived on July 16, prompted by internal complaints, Faison reportedly panicked, instructing his officers to keep the inspectors at bay.
Sources reveal that members of the unit raised concerns about Faison, who took charge in 2023 after managing two districts in Brooklyn. Complaints included:
- Unsafe training practices, like a hard landing during student flights in June that almost led to a crash at their Brooklyn base—although thankfully, no injuries occurred.
- A solo flight in which he flew improperly from the incorrect seat despite manufacturer regulations, risking safety procedures.
- Failure to perform required pre-flight checks, leading to an oil leak that went unnoticed on the helicopter—a serious oversight, as the tail was left covered in oil upon landing.
- Allegations of hiring new staff without adherence to NYPD protocols.
- Concerns over rotor system issues, with descriptions suggesting severe mechanical danger.
- Damage caused during a July 4th training exercise that required costly repairs, totaling $40,000 for the tail rotor alone.
Fortunately, due to the tail rotor damage from that very flight, Faison was grounded afterward. However, reports suggest he didn’t seem to understand why he couldn’t fly. This incident wasn’t promptly reported to the appropriate safety commission, adding to the concerns.
Despite the troubles, the unit has managed to replace damaged helicopter blades at substantial expenses. The Bell 407, integral for training new pilots, has been in use since 1996 and is valued at around $1.5 million. The aviation unit is currently operating under increasing strain, as its pilots deal with multiple shifts.
It seems Faison was resistant to compliance, even telling officers to prevent FAA representatives from entering, indicating a troubling aversion to oversight. Insider claims reflect fears about his competency, with suggestions that real consequences may only come after a more severe incident.
Faison, who has connections to Mayor Adams, was earning a six-figure salary at the time of his dismissal. Notably, he became the first Black commander of the aviation unit in 2023 and had rapidly progressed to instructor status, raising eyebrows given the usual timeline to achieve such credentials.
Interestingly, his past includes a private pilot’s license before joining the NYPD, which seems to have positioned him favorably in his rise, though now he faces severe scrutiny. The available resources are stretched thin, causing operational challenges within the unit.
The specifics of Faison’s removal were not outlined in internal communications shared with NYPD members. However, it is clear that an internal investigation is underway, while the FAA retains the power to revoke pilot licenses as needed. On Friday, Faison declined further comment when reached by a reporter.
