FBI Recovers Stolen Aircraft After Meth-Fueled Pilot Flew From Washington to SoCal.

Federal investigators have detailed an extraordinary unauthorized flight operation involving a stolen single-engine aircraft. The incident began at Auburn Municipal Airport in Washington state. A man with no pilot certification allegedly stole the plane on January 3.

Authorities identified the suspect as Christian Estoque. He is a Pomona, California resident. Estoque reportedly flew the aircraft over 1,000 miles south. His girlfriend was also believed to be aboard. The flight path was difficult to track. Investigators said the aircraft's transponder was manipulated. This action concealed the plane's location for a three-day period.

The Unauthorized Flight and Recovery

The Washington state aircraft theft was reported by the owner. The single-engine plane was first spotted in Kelso, Washington. It was later located on January 6 at Corona Municipal Airport. This Southern California facility is in Riverside County. The plane's recovery was a key part of the investigation.

Estoque was arrested later that month. Agents from the FBI's LAX Joint Terrorism Task Force conducted surveillance. They witnessed Estoque attempting to steal a second aircraft. This second plane was at the Corona airport. Estoque was taken into custody on January 27.

Drug-Related Aviation Incident

During questioning, Estoque made a critical admission. He told investigators he was under the influence of methamphetamine while operating the stolen plane. This confession links the meth-fueled plane theft to serious drug impairment. The suspect is not a registered pilot. He was charged with operating an unregistered aircraft.

Aviation Security Concerns and Regulatory Impact

This high-profile incident highlights general aviation security breach issues. Small, uncontrolled airports often have fewer security measures. They lack the extensive screening of major commercial hubs. The unauthorized flight raises questions for the FAA. The Federal Aviation Administration sets security standards.

• Risk Assessment: The ability to steal and fly a plane undetected for days poses a serious risk.
• Technology Evasion: Transponder manipulation shows a deliberate attempt to evade air traffic control.
• Regulatory Review: The incident may prompt a review of security protocols at smaller airfields.

The stolen aircraft recovery at the Corona airport concludes the immediate search. However, the federal investigation is ongoing. It focuses on the broader implications of the security failure. Authorities are working to prevent similar small aircraft theft incidents. The case underscores the need for constant vigilance.

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