Lewandowski's Cockpit Entry and Pilot Firing Over Blanket Raises Safety Concerns
WASHINGTON – A senior U.S. homeland security aide, Corey Lewandowski, entered the cockpit of a government jet without authorization during a flight last year and subsequently fired a pilot over a misplaced blanket, according to two individuals familiar with the incident. The episode has raised significant questions about aviation safety protocols and the conduct of high-level government officials.
Violation of Safety Guidelines During Critical Flight Phase
Lewandowski, a long-time ally of President Donald Trump, was traveling with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem when they discovered her blanket was missing. The sources, who requested anonymity to discuss internal government operations, revealed that Lewandowski entered the cockpit before the aircraft had reached 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) and while the seatbelt sign remained illuminated.
Federal Aviation Administration regulations, which were strengthened after the September 11 attacks, strictly limit cockpit access and prohibit any interference with aircraft crew duties. The FAA's "sterile cockpit rule" specifically bans non-essential activities or conversations in the cockpit during operations below 10,000 feet. Civil aircraft operators violating this rule could face substantial fines, while pilots risk termination.
Coast Guard Policy and Safety Implications
Although the U.S. Coast Guard, which operated the plane, is not legally bound by FAA regulations, it maintains a similar policy outlined in its 2021 operations manual. The manual states: "No person shall engage in any conversation or activity that could distract or interfere with a flight crewmember properly conducting their assigned duties during critical phases of flight." While the manual does not specify penalties for violations, it indicates that such incidents are typically addressed through internal disciplinary processes.
Aviation safety experts emphasize that the initial ascent is among the most hazardous phases of any flight. Randy Klatt, a flight safety officer with The Foundation for Aviation Safety, explained that aircraft are "low and slow" during the climb to 10,000 feet, making it crucial for pilots to maintain complete focus on flight operations. "This is a vulnerable situation for any aircraft," Klatt noted. "You don't have the altitude to spare, or trade for airspeed if needed."
Lewandowski's Response and Official Reactions
In response to inquiries, Lewandowski stated via text message: "There was never a conversation in the cockpit when the flight was taking off." He claimed the sources' account was inaccurate but did not address whether he entered the cockpit during the ascent below 10,000 feet.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard, which falls under DHS, declined to comment on the specific flight. The FAA also did not respond to requests for comment. The White House referred to previous statements by President Trump praising Secretary Noem and press secretary Karoline Leavitt's remarks expressing Trump's "utmost confidence and trust" in her.
Pilot Firing and Reinstatement Details
During the flight on a Gulfstream jet last spring, the cockpit crew asked Lewandowski to return to the cabin until reaching cruising altitude. Later in the flight, when the pilot entered the cabin, Lewandowski demanded to know who should be fired because Noem's blanket had been left behind when they switched planes for technical reasons before takeoff.
The pilot, described as an accomplished flyer with a distinguished service record, accepted responsibility for any potential oversight. Lewandowski then fired him immediately, according to the sources, confirming a prior Wall Street Journal report. However, upon reaching their destination, Coast Guard leadership recognized the pilot would be needed for the return flight to the Washington region and reinstated him. The DHS and Coast Guard declined to comment on the pilot's dismissal and reinstatement.
Broader Context and Investigations
Lewandowski serves as a "special government employee" permitted to work up to 130 days annually and acts as a senior adviser to Secretary Noem, accompanying her on high-profile trips. The Wall Street Journal reported that the White House Counsel's Office initiated an investigation into Lewandowski's use of his quasi-government role last year. A DHS spokesperson stated that Lewandowski volunteers his time and that the department was unaware of any such investigation. Lewandowski did not comment on his employment status when questioned.
Secretary Noem, who oversees Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement measures, has faced increased scrutiny following the deaths of two U.S. citizens by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis in January. Reports have also highlighted internal conflicts and tensions within DHS under Noem and Lewandowski's leadership, including the pilot incident.
