How to Start a 135 Charter Airline
The government requires that any pilot who takes remuneration for transporting passengers obtain certification. There are several steps to apply for this certification, which is called "Part 135." Although the application process can seem intimidating at first, with enough time to carefully read documents and gather others, it can be done.
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Things You'll Need
- Documents from the FAA website
- Certification of Incorporation (if you represent a corporation)
- Pilot resume
- Pilot certification
- Pilot medical certificate
- Aircraft registration or lease of aircraft agreement
- HazMat training materials
- PAX briefing card
- Aircraft Discrepancy Log
Instructions
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1
Fill out the PASI (Pre-application Statement of Intent) and the Operations Specifications Worksheet on the FAA's website.
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2
Draft a formal application letter. Review both the Letter of Compliance and the Advisory Circular on the FAA website.
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3
Send all of the documents from Steps 1 to 2---along with a copy of your Certification of Incorporation (if you represent a corporation), pilot resume, pilot certification, pilot medical certificate, aircraft registration or lease of aircraft agreement---to the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) nearest to you.
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4
Provide HazMat training to your personnel. Make sure you are using the most up-to-date revisions as training materials.
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5
Provide a Drug and Alcohol program for your personnel. Have the program approved by the FAA.
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6
With the FAA, schedule times for an Aircraft Conformity Inspection and a Pilot Flight Check.
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7
Procure a PAX briefing card for each occupied passenger seat.
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8
Develop an Aircraft Discrepancy Log for the pilot to fill out.
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Tips & Warnings
There are some companies that can help you complete and gather the necessary paperwork, such as Aviation Computer Systems. This may be a good option for you if you don't have the time or ability to complete the application process on your own.
Additional paperwork may be necessary for small airlines that use more than one pilot, fly across state lines or have other unique conditions. Check with the FAA to see if you will require any additional work before becoming certified.
