Using Occam's razor...I have a much simpler theory
Post# of 41413
It sounds to me like Mark probably IS the FAA employee he claims to be. While it's certainly possible that somebody cloned Mark's phone...it's not likely.
As an office manager, Mark would likely be more involved with office infrastructure, office supplies/purchasing, and coordinating with other departments like IT, HR, etc... in order to provide an office environment that enables the certification inspectors do their job.
Mark is likely not directly involved in the actual certifications. As such, he likely has some, but not complete, knowledge about the certs. IOW...he knows enough to be dangerous. It's not uncommon for people in that situation to exaggerate their knowledge of a subject...hence the reason he was willing to ramble on about it. Like a security guard taking like a cop. Maybe he's an office manager talking like an inspector.
That said...my interpretation of "what he is saying" is that the local FSDO failed it (because they were forced to by procedure), but supported BLTA with a petition for review at a higher level. Next, the regional office (Mark's office) was afraid to overturn the decision (again, based on procedure) and forwarded it to DC for a chance there (that is where they can discuss intent of regulations and make changes etc).
Assuming that is true, there are two possible takeaways here IMO.
One, he has no idea how this is being handled at the moment since it was escalated to DC and he's been on vacation.
Two, he has heard the inspectors discussions and seen paperwork (that might have even gone through his hands) that might indicate a failure at the local level, a non willingness to override it at the regional level, and knows it was forwarded to DC; but (based on other certs that have gone through his office), doubts there will be a pass.
I'll probably be tarred and feathered for this post; but I personally think it can go either way.
JMO
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