Politicians Flying on Private Plane?

Political figures as well as elected officials who travel via private aircraft are a media magnet. Just look at Representative Aaron Schock who made an announcement about his resignation following several press stories that he flew on a private aircraft into his home state. The press and the government watchdog groups are pouncing on allegations that a public official is using taxpayer’s money or campaign funds improperly.

Let it be a Lesson

These stories might focus not just on the passenger of private flights because news reports and complaint expressed by a watchdog group to Office of Congressional Ethics has been identified by name the owners of the private aircraft on whose Representative Schock flew. Without a doubt, the moment when the plane has taken off the air, any allegations of using private aircraft improperly by a candidate or public official could be expensive and time-consuming as well. This goes both for the aircraft owner and the passenger.

This is basically the reason why if in case a candidate or a public official is on passenger list for private flight, it is imperative to know ahead of time. This way, anything that might arise can be dealt with handled accordingly.

Who are Restricted from a Private Flight?

Generally speaking, ethics rules are limiting the circumstance in which a person who is involved in the government or politics might travel via private aircraft. The certain people who are covered by such rules may depend on jurisdiction which includes:

  • Officers
  • Officials
  • Employees of the United States, Local or State Government or;
  • Government or agency owned or controlled entity

Aside from that, any candidates for elective office, officials of a political party, employees of any public international organization, members of the military will have limits on travelling on a private aircraft.

Campaign finance laws are regulating as well the in-kind contribution for private air transportation to political campaign. Those who are subject to these campaign finance laws will include those who travel on a private aircraft either on behalf of or for purpose of another entity’s campaign and purposes that are related to their personal campaign.

Pros and Cons

Indeed, being a public official comes with its pros and cons especially when travelling. Luckily, they can use their power for effortlessly finding the best tube amp to fulfill their music desires on their wee time.