19 U.S.C. § 1590: Aviation smuggling

It is unlawful for the pilot of any aircraft to transport, or for any individual on board any aircraft to possess, merchandise knowing, or intending, that the merchandise will be introduced into the United States contrary to law. the aircraft is owned by a citizen of the United States or is registered in the United States, or the vessel is a vessel of the United States (within the meaning of section 1703(b) of this title ), or regardless of the nationality of the vessel or aircraft, such transfer is made under circumstances indicating the intent to make it possible for such merchandise, or any part thereof, to be introduced into the United States unlawfully. Any person who violates any provision of this section is liable for a civil penalty equal to twice the value of the merchandise involved in the violation, but not less than $10,000. The value of any controlled substance included in the merchandise shall be determined in accordance with section 1497(b) of this title . liable for a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for not more than 5 years, or both, if none of the merchandise involved was a controlled substance; or liable for a fine of not more than $250,000 or imprisonment for not more than 20 years, or both, if any of the merchandise involved was a controlled substance. Except as provided in paragraph (2), a vessel or aircraft used in connection with, or in aiding or facilitating, any violation of this section, whether or not any person is charged in connection with such violation, may be seized and forfeited in accordance with the customs laws. Paragraph (1) does not apply to a vessel or aircraft operated as a common carrier. As used in this section, the term “merchandise” means only merchandise the importation of which into the United States is prohibited or restricted. has the meaning given that term in section 40102 of title 49 ; and includes a vehicle described in section 103.1 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. The operation of an aircraft or a vessel without lights during such times as lights are required to be displayed under applicable law. The presence on an aircraft of an auxiliary fuel tank which is not installed in accordance with applicable law. the vessel by name or country of registration, or the aircraft by registration number and country of registration, The external display of false registration numbers, false country of registration, or, in the case of a vessel, false vessel name. The presence on board of unmanifested merchandise, the importation of which is prohibited or restricted. The presence on board of controlled substances which are not manifested or which are not accompanied by the permits or licenses required under Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs or other international treaty. The presence of any compartment or equipment which is built or fitted out for smuggling. The failure of a vessel to stop when hailed by a customs officer or other government authority.