Bill > H4674

This bill establishes a legal framework for airport managers to dispose of abandoned or derelict aircraft at publicly owned or public-use airports in South Carolina. The bill defines "abandoned aircraft" as an aircraft left in a wrecked or dismantled condition for 120 days without required payments, and "derelict aircraft" as an aircraft left on airport premises for 180 days without maintenance or responsibility. The process requires airport managers to first contact the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to identify the aircraft's owners and lienholders, and then send a detailed written notice explaining the intent to dispose of the aircraft. The notice must provide owners 30 days to either submit a reasonable repair plan or remove the aircraft and pay any accrued fees. If no action is taken, the airport can assert a lien, remove the aircraft, and sell it at a public auction. The bill includes provisions for hardship exceptions, such as military deployment or probate issues, which can delay disposal. If the aircraft is sold, any net proceeds will be paid to the owner or, if the owner cannot be found, to the State Aviation Fund. The bill does not apply to unmanned aircraft, ultralight aircraft, or aircraft actively being restored. The law takes effect upon the Governor's approval.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4674&session=126&summary=B