Part 135 and Part 91k Operations: What Fractional Owners Need to Know

Part 135 Operations: Key Regulations and Differences

The aviation industry is governed by a wide range of regulations designed to ensure the safety and efficiency of flight operations. One of the primary regulatory frameworks under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is Part 135, which applies to on-demand and commuter operations.

These operations cover air charters, air taxis, and other private aviation services provided for compensation or hire. Understanding Part 135 operations is essential for operators, pilots, and passengers involved in private and commercial aviation.

This post will explain the rules governing Part 135, compare it to Part 91, Subpart K, and highlight its unique requirements for safe and compliant flight operations.

What Are Part 135 Operations?

Part 135 operations refer to flight services provided under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) for on-demand or commuter air transportation. These operations include:

• On-Demand Operations: Flights arranged by passengers or companies, such as private jet charters, often involving routes between two or more points.
• Commuter Operations: Scheduled flights for passengers or cargo with a maximum payload capacity of 7,500 pounds or fewer.

To conduct operations under Part 135, operators must obtain certification from the FAA and follow strict safety, training, and operational standards.

Key Requirements for Part 135 Operations

To operate under Part 135, aviation providers must meet specific FAA requirements that prioritize safety, efficiency, and compliance across all aspects of flight operations.

1. Certification and Operational Control

Operators conducting flights under Part 135 must hold an Air Carrier Certificate issued by the FAA. This certification confirms compliance with the federal regulations governing flight operations and passenger safety.

• Operational Control: The operator holds responsibility for all aspects of the flight, including route planning, weather evaluation, and crew qualifications.
• Chief Pilot and Management Specifications: Operators must designate a chief pilot and document all operational and management specifications in accordance with FAA standards.

2. Aircraft and Safety Standards

Aircraft used in Part 135 operations must meet strict maintenance and certification requirements. Operators must ensure the following:

• Aircraft are equipped with safety features suitable for passenger transportation.
• Maintenance schedules are followed rigorously.
• The same aircraft may not exceed the operational limits defined in the FAA’s regulations.

3. Pilot Qualifications and Training

The FAA enforces detailed requirements for pilot qualifications in Part 135 operations:

• Pilots must hold commercial pilot certifications.
• Specific training is required for operations in varying conditions, such as low-visibility or high-altitude landings.
• At least two pilots may be required for certain flights based on aircraft type and capacity.

4. Weather Minimums and Flight Rules

Part 135 operations must adhere to strict weather minimums to ensure safe flights:

• Pilots must evaluate weather conditions, including at the destination and any alternate airports.
• Operations must comply with visual and instrument flight rules depending on the circumstances.

Comparing Part 135 and Part 91, Subpart K

While Part 135 governs commercial operations, Part 91, Subpart K applies to fractional ownership programs. These two sets of regulations have significant differences, which impact flight operations and passenger services.

• Operational Scope: Part 135 applies to charter flights and commuter operations offered for compensation. In contrast, Part 91K focuses on private aviation services for fractional owners.
• Certification Requirements: Part 135 requires air carrier certification, while Part 91K requires management specifications for program managers overseeing fractional ownership operations.
• Flight Operations: Part 135 operations must comply with detailed FAA regulations on maintenance, weather, and pilot training. Part 91K offers more flexibility, reflecting the private nature of fractional ownership.
• Crew and Equipment: Part 135 mandates stricter requirements for flight crew and aircraft equipment to meet commercial charter standards.

Operational Specifications for Part 135

Part 135 operations must follow specific procedures outlined by the FAA to ensure safety and reliability. These include:

Destination and Alternate Airports

Flights must have a designated destination airport and at least one alternate airport in case conditions at the destination become unfavorable. Pilots must evaluate weather conditions and ensure compliance with FAA landing minimums.

Flight Planning and Estimated Time

Operators must provide accurate flight plans, including the estimated time of arrival at the destination airport. Routes must be planned to accommodate emergencies and ensure efficient use of airspace.

Maximum Payload Capacity

Operators must adhere to payload limits, typically up to 7,500 pounds for commuter operations.

Safety Protocols in Part 135 Operations

Safety is at the core of Part 135 regulations, ensuring passengers and crew experience safe and compliant operations. Key safety measures include:

1. Pilot Training: Pilots must undergo recurrent training to remain proficient in handling emergency situations, weather conditions, and complex navigation procedures.
2. Emergency Procedures: Operators must implement and regularly practice emergency protocols, such as alternate landing procedures and passenger evacuation drills.
3. Aircraft Maintenance: Regular inspections and servicing are mandatory to meet FAA’s primary regulations for airworthiness.

Benefits of Part 135 Operations

Operating under Part 135 provides advantages for both passengers and operators:

Flexibility

Passengers enjoy the convenience of on-demand operations, allowing flights to be arranged on short notice. The ability to fly directly to smaller airports that may not be served by commercial airlines adds further flexibility.

Customizable Services

Part 135 allows operators to tailor flights to meet the unique needs of passengers, including custom departure times and in-flight services.

Enhanced Safety

FAA regulations under Part 135 ensure that operations meet high safety standards, including rigorous pilot training and aircraft maintenance protocols.

Challenges in Part 135 Operations

While Part 135 operations offer significant benefits, they come with challenges:

1. Stringent Compliance Meeting FAA regulations require significant time and financial investment, including maintaining aircraft and ensuring crew readiness.
2. Weather Limitations Operations must adhere to strict weather minimums, which can sometimes lead to delays or cancellations.
3. High Operating Costs Aircraft maintenance, crew salaries, and regulatory compliance add to the expenses of conducting operations under Part 135.

Conclusion: The Importance of Part 135 Operations

Part 135 operations are vital to the private aviation and charter industry, providing passengers with flexible, safe, and efficient transportation options. Governed by the Federal Aviation Administration, these operations ensure that flight crews, operators, and aircraft meet the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Understanding the key differences between Part 135 and Part 91, Subpart K helps passengers and operators determine the best option for their needs. While Part 135 focuses on commercial operations with rigorous safety standards, Part 91K offers greater flexibility for private aviation enthusiasts.

With clear operational specifications, detailed flight rules, and robust safety protocols, Part 135 operations exemplify the FAA’s commitment to safe and reliable air travel.

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