Czech aviation authority investigates pilot Jiří Vlk following extortion conviction

The Czech Civil Aviation Authority (ÚCL) is investigating whether businessman and pilot Jiří Vlk should lose his flying license following a criminal conviction. Vlk was recently sentenced to a suspended prison term for extortion involving a firearm, during which he allegedly threatened a victim by ordering them to the ground at gunpoint.

The investigation follows reports regarding Vlk’s helicopter services, which have been used by prominent figures, including MP Filip Turek and President Petr Pavel. While the ÚCL is reviewing the matter, officials noted that a pilot's license certifies professional and medical fitness rather than moral integrity, and current legislation does not allow for the automatic revocation of a license based on every criminal sentence.

Regarding the President's involvement, the Prague Castle spokesperson clarified that Petr Pavel’s flight was a one-time occurrence offered by event organizers during preparations for the ‘Aviation Sportsperson of the Year’ gala.