49 U.S.C. § 46304 — Liens on aircraft

(a) Aircraft Subject to Liens. If an aircraft is involved in a violation described in section 46301(a)(1)(A) through (C), and the violation was committed by the aircraft's owner or by whoever was in command of it, the aircraft becomes subject to a lien for the civil penalty. (b) Seizure. An aircraft under such a lien can be seized right away and placed in the custody of someone authorized under regulations from the Secretary of Transportation or the FAA Administrator. A report on the seizure must go to the Attorney General, who must promptly either bring an in rem lawsuit to enforce the lien, or tell the Secretary or Administrator that no lawsuit will be brought. (c) Release. A seized aircraft is released from custody when (1) the penalty is paid; (2) an agreed compromise amount is paid; (3) the aircraft is seized as part of an in rem lawsuit enforcing the lien; (4) the Attorney General gives notice that no lawsuit will be brought under (b); or (5) a bond — in an amount, and with a guarantor, set by the Secretary or Administrator — covering the penalty or compromise is posted.