Last year, Judge Alfonso J. Montaño joined the National Transportation Safety Board as an administrative law judge.

Judge Montaño, a 15-year administrative law judge veteran and private pilot, says “I consider myself most fortunate to have the opportunity to report to work each morning at the NTSB to a job that involves two of my greatest interests, aviation and the law.” 

Since coming to the Safety Board in August 2010, he has heard, considered and issued initial decision on appeals filed with the Board involving certificate actions by the FAA Administrator amending, modifying, suspending or revoking, in whole or in part, certificates of airmen, air agencies and air carriers, for alleged violation of the Federal Aviation Regulations or for lack of qualifications. 

In his position, Judge Montaño also hears cases involving FAA action denying applications for the issuance or renewal of airmen certificates and appeals of certain FAA civil penalty orders against pilots, flight engineers, mechanics or repairmen.  He also adjudicates claims for fees and expenses under the Equal Access to Justice Act.

“All of the cases I have heard since joining the Board have been very interesting as well as challenging,” said Judge Montaño.  “The Safety Board administrative hearing and appeal process provides a full and fair opportunity for all parties to litigate their respective positions before a truly independent and impartial forum.” 

Prior to joining the NTSB, Judge Montaño was with the Departmental Appeals Board for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  He heard and decided cases involving Medicare nursing home compliance issues, and actions brought by the Inspectors General for HHS and the Social Security Administration in which civil monetary penalties or debarments were imposed against individuals or entities that defrauded or abused Medicare or the Social Security disability programs.  Also, while at HHS, he worked in various positions with the Office of Inspector General investigating and prosecuting administrative actions related to fraud and abuse of the Medicare program.   

Judge Montaño is also a former trial attorney with the United States Department of Justice where he tried cases and also argued appeals before the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.  He started his career as an administrative law judge with the Social Security Administration where he heard and decided disability cases.

Judge Montaño is a graduate of New Mexico Highlands University and earned his Juris Doctorate Degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law.