Opinion ID: 673514
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Temporary Suspension

Text: 11 Although our inquiry normally would begin with a determination of whether Greenwood had either a property or liberty interest in the current PED at the time it was suspended, we need not make such a determination here because it is clear that, in any event, Greenwood was afforded due process. But see White v. Franklin, 637 F.Supp. 601, 610 (N.D.Miss.1986) (PED qualifies as protected property interest entitled to procedural due process if terminated during its one-year period of duration). 12 The suspension of Greenwood's PED was a temporary measure, taken after an incident which resulted in concern about the safety of Greenwood's technique and standards and his judgment as a designated pilot examiner. Greenwood was informed in writing that the PED was being temporarily suspended pending investigation of the flight check incident. He was given the name of a person to contact with questions. He was then allowed to explain the situation, and the suspension was lifted, all within a period of less than a week. This was adequate process under the circumstances, even if Greenwood had a property or liberty interest in the current PED. See Mathews v. Eldridge, 424 U.S. 319, 332-35, 96 S.Ct. 893, 901-03, 47 L.Ed.2d 18 (1976) (extent of due process required depends upon particular interests affected). See also Reid v. Engen, 765 F.2d 1457, 1463 (9th Cir.1985) (written notice and informal conference prior to suspension of pilot certificate for 120 days satisfied due process requirements). Although the notice and opportunity to discuss the suspension came after the suspension was imposed rather than prior to it, the suspension was a necessary safety measure, and the notice, counselling, and removal of the suspension followed promptly. Cf. 5 U.S.C. Sec. 558(c) (1988) (APA provision allowing suspension of license without prior notice and opportunity to be heard when public health, interest, or safety so requires). We therefore find that Greenwood received adequate procedural due process as to the temporary suspension of his PED.