Pilot caught flying simultaneously for two airlines

Several airmen from the new state-funded Maltese carrier, KM Malta Airlinesare angry over the airline’s decision to allow a female pilot to continue flying for the company after she was caught simultaneously working for another company, The Shift reported.

This happened last month when first officer Danica Theuma, employed by the new government airline, was caught flying Virgin Atlantic planes in the UK.

His colleagues told The Shift that Theuma, instead of observing his mandatory rest periods, used his time to travel to London to fly Virgin Atlantic planes out of Heathrow Airport.

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The woman reportedly flew as a first officer for both airlines since at least December 2023, until she was arrested in May 2024.

After learning what was happening, Virgin Atlantic fired Theuma on the spot.

In addition to a serious breach of contract, the pilot also breached international safety rules that impose strict regulatory constraints on duty times and rest periods to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

KM Malta Airlines initially suspended Theuma, but reinstated her shortly after, so she continues to fly for the airline. Several pilots of the Maltese carrier are furious that she was not fired, given her blatant violation of safety regulations.

Pilots who spoke to The Shift said their contracts did not allow them to work for another airline.

Pilots cannot work for competitors or other airlines to ensure they are fully committed to their job. They must also ensure they meet minimum rest requirements and manage their availability to avoid scheduling conflicts.

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