Originally Posted by
CW247
Some years ago, a relatively large UK Tour Operator airline went bust, lets just say that a lot of references where written by friends for friends (after losing their jobs). What of that?
If the reference was along the lines of “I am a B777 TRE and supervised Capt Fred’s command upgrade in July 2014. He operates to a high standard…” etc. that is a personal reference and will be treated accordingly.
if the reference was (eg) “I can confirm Capt Fred was employed by UK Tour Operator as a B777 captain for the period … and the company had no cause for concern about his performance at any stage” and it is signed off for UK Tour Operator when the signatory has no authority to act on behalf of the company then it is fraudulent.
If you use a false instrument to gain a pecuniary advantage (in this case employment), you commit fraud. The fact that others have got away with it does not make it right.
If you want an example of self-provided references conveniently omitting ‘unhelpful’ information with disastrous consequences, check out the NTSB report into the Atlas Air B767 accident in Feb 2019.