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A self-proclaimed "free citizen" is facing federal charges in Alaska for allegedly nearly causing a midair collision, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). William Brian Marsan was indicted and jailed on July 18 after he reportedly taxied his Piper Cherokee to the wrong end of the active runway at Warren "Bud" Woods Palmer Municipal Airport and took off into oncoming traffic without making a radio call. Authorities are also attempting to seize the aircraft. Marsan is known as the former owner of Sound Air, a local aviation company.
According to the Anchorage Daily News, FAA officials tracked down Marsan, who refused to cooperate when approached. He claimed he was a "free citizen" who did not require the medical or pilot certificate that the inspector demanded. Although previously certificated, his medical certification lapsed in 2020, and he deregistered the plane in 2022. In documents filed in his defense, Marsan described himself as an "American State National" not subject to federal laws. He appeared in court earlier this week and was released from jail on the condition that he refrain from flying.
