Originally Posted by
rudestuff
Interesting title. A quick Google search will show that flying in the US is certified and regulated by the FAA. And 'theft' is taking something from its rightful owner - not returning it.
Obviously it's sexed up for TV with a lot of 'owners' turning up at the last minute, but presumably it does happen for real. The only issue I can see is that of type ratings and insurance, presumably they have numerous pilots rated on a number of different aircraft each,
and a trade policy. They could always hire in contract pilots for unusual stuff.
It does happen for real, but this TV program is scripted and staged.