Charter operators, certification, and pricing explained

A Part 135 certificate is an FAA-issued operating certificate that authorizes commercial operators to conduct on-demand charter flights and scheduled commuter operations with smaller aircraft. This certificate ensures that operators meet stringent safety standards, including pilot training requirements, aircraft maintenance protocols, and operational procedures. When booking a charter flight, choosing a Part 135-certified operator guarantees you're flying with a company that meets federal safety standards and undergoes regular FAA oversight and inspections.

You can verify a Part 135 operator's certification through several methods: Check the FAA's online database at faa.gov for current certificate status, request to see their Operations Specifications (OpSpecs) which detail their authorized operations, ask for their certificate number and verify it directly with the FAA, and ensure their insurance coverage is current and adequate. Legitimate operators will readily provide this information and be proud to demonstrate their compliance with federal regulations.

Part 91 governs private, non-commercial flights where no compensation is involved, while Part 135 covers commercial operations that carry passengers for hire. Part 135 operators must meet much stricter requirements including: higher pilot qualification standards, more rigorous aircraft maintenance programs, formal training curricula, operational control systems, and regular FAA inspections. If you're paying for a charter flight, it must be conducted under Part 135 regulations to be legal and ensure maximum safety standards.

Booking a charter flight involves several steps: First, determine your travel requirements including departure/arrival airports, dates, passenger count, and any special needs. Contact certified Part 135 operators or use reputable charter brokers to request quotes. Compare proposals considering safety records, aircraft type, total cost, and operator credentials. Once you select an operator, provide passenger information, coordinate ground transportation, and review trip details. Most charter companies require payment in advance and will handle flight planning, catering arrangements, and ground services coordination.

Charter flights offer a premium travel experience with several advantages: You'll typically arrive at an FBO (Fixed Base Operator) rather than the main terminal, avoiding commercial airline crowds and security lines. Boarding is usually quick and efficient with personalized service. Aircraft are configured for comfort with more spacious seating, and many flights include catering options. Flight schedules are flexible and can accommodate changes. You'll have direct communication with the flight crew and operator throughout your journey. The experience is designed to be stress-free, efficient, and tailored to your specific needs.

Charter flight costs vary significantly based on several factors: Aircraft size and type (turboprops start around $1,200-2,500 per hour, light jets $2,500-4,000 per hour, mid-size jets $3,500-6,000 per hour, and large jets $6,000-15,000+ per hour). Additional costs include positioning fees if the aircraft must travel to pick you up, overnight fees for multi-day trips, catering, ground transportation, and international fees. Total trip costs depend on flight time, aircraft requirements, and additional services. Always request detailed quotes that break down all expenses to avoid unexpected charges.

Research a charter operator's safety record through multiple sources: Review FAA enforcement actions and inspection records available through Freedom of Information Act requests, check the operator's safety rating with organizations like ARGUS or Wyvern, examine their insurance coverage and claims history, ask about their maintenance practices and recent inspections, and inquire about pilot training programs and experience requirements. Reputable operators will be transparent about their safety practices and may exceed minimum regulatory requirements through voluntary safety programs.

Part 121 governs major scheduled airlines operating large aircraft (typically more than 30 seats), while Part 135 covers smaller aircraft operations including charter flights and commuter airlines. Part 121 operations have more stringent requirements including: mandatory copilots on all flights, more extensive pilot training and qualification requirements, stricter maintenance programs, required dispatchers for flight monitoring, and more frequent FAA inspections. Part 135 operations offer more flexibility in scheduling and routes but serve smaller aircraft with fewer passengers.

Obtaining Part 135 certification is a comprehensive process requiring: Demonstration of adequate financing and management structure, submission of detailed operations manuals and procedures, proof of appropriate aircraft and facilities, employment of qualified pilots and maintenance personnel, completion of proving flights under FAA observation, and establishment of training programs and operational control systems. The certification process typically takes 6-12 months and costs significant money for manuals, training, inspections, and administrative requirements. Operators must maintain compliance through ongoing inspections and audits.

Part 135 operators must maintain substantial insurance coverage including: Liability insurance for passenger injury and property damage (minimum amounts vary by aircraft size but typically start at $300,000 per passenger), hull insurance covering aircraft value, and often additional coverage for international operations. Many operators carry coverage well above regulatory minimums. Before booking, verify the operator's insurance is current and adequate for your needs. Some operators also carry passenger accident insurance as additional protection beyond standard liability coverage.

Empty leg flights occur when charter aircraft fly without passengers to position for another flight or return to base. These flights are often available at 25-75% off regular charter rates since the aircraft is flying anyway. Find empty leg deals through: charter operator websites, specialized empty leg marketplaces, charter broker networks, and social media channels. However, empty legs have limitations including fixed schedules, limited availability, potential cancellations if the original flight changes, and no guarantee of return flights. They're ideal for flexible travelers seeking charter flight experiences at reduced costs.

Charter flights can access many more airports than commercial airlines, including smaller regional airports and private airstrips. However, several factors affect airport accessibility: runway length and condition requirements for specific aircraft types, fuel availability and ground services, customs facilities for international flights, noise restrictions and operating hour limitations, and special permits for certain restricted airports. Part 135 operators can often get you closer to your final destination and avoid major airport congestion, but they must ensure airports meet safety and operational requirements for their specific aircraft.

Weather-related delays and cancellations are handled differently by charter operators compared to airlines: Most charter companies will work to find alternative routing or timing to complete your trip, aircraft may be able to depart from or land at alternate airports with better weather conditions, experienced charter pilots can often operate in conditions that ground commercial flights, and operators typically provide regular updates and work with you to minimize disruption. However, safety always takes priority, and flights will be delayed or cancelled if conditions are unsafe. Review the operator's weather policy and understand any associated costs for delays or diversions.

International charter flights require additional documentation and planning: All passengers need valid passports and appropriate visas, operators must obtain international flight permits and customs clearance, advance passenger information must be provided to customs authorities, and some countries require special permits for charter operations. The charter operator should handle most international requirements, but passengers are responsible for proper documentation. Allow extra time for international charter planning, and consider working with operators experienced in international operations who understand the complex requirements of international charter flights.

Charter flight booking timelines depend on several factors: For domestic flights, 24-48 hours notice is often sufficient, though popular routes and peak travel times may require longer lead times. International flights typically need 3-7 days minimum for permits and customs arrangements. Peak travel periods (holidays, major events) require weeks or months of advance booking. Last-minute flights are possible but may have limited aircraft availability and higher costs. For best aircraft selection and pricing, booking 1-2 weeks in advance for domestic flights and 2-4 weeks for international flights is recommended.

Charter flight amenities vary by aircraft size and operator, but commonly include: Spacious seating that often converts to beds on larger aircraft, customized catering options from simple snacks to gourmet meals, Wi-Fi and entertainment systems on many modern aircraft, climate control adjusted to passenger preferences, luggage space for oversized items not accommodated on commercial flights, and ground transportation coordination. Larger jets may feature private bedrooms, showers, and conference areas. Discuss specific amenity requirements when booking to ensure the selected aircraft meets your needs.

Most charter operators welcome pets, offering significant advantages over commercial airlines: Pets can typically remain in the cabin with owners rather than cargo holds, no size or breed restrictions common with airlines, reduced stress for animals due to private environment and familiar owners nearby, and flexible policies for pet carriers and supplies. However, international flights require health certificates, vaccinations, and import permits. Some operators charge additional cleaning fees for pets. Discuss pet policies when booking and ensure proper documentation for your destination. Charter flights are often the most comfortable option for traveling with pets.

Part 135 pilots must meet rigorous qualification standards: Pilot-in-Command (PIC) requires an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with minimum 1,500 flight hours, specific aircraft type ratings, and regular recurrent training. Second-in-Command (SIC) positions require Commercial Pilot certificates with appropriate ratings. All pilots must complete initial and recurrent training programs specific to their aircraft and operator, pass regular medical examinations, and maintain recent flight experience. Many Part 135 operators exceed minimum requirements, hiring pilots with extensive experience from military or airline backgrounds to ensure the highest safety standards.

Charter flight pricing is typically based on flight time charged hourly, but includes several components: Base hourly rate varies by aircraft type and age, positioning costs if aircraft must travel to pick up passengers, overnight fees for trips requiring crew rest away from base, fuel surcharges that may vary with fuel prices, international fees for permits and handling, catering and ground transportation costs, and taxes and FET (Federal Excise Tax). Some operators offer all-inclusive pricing while others itemize charges. Request detailed quotes that specify all costs to avoid surprises, and understand the operator's cancellation and change policies.

If you have concerns about a Part 135 charter operator: First, attempt to resolve issues directly with the operator's management or customer service department. Document all communications and keep records of your complaint. For safety-related issues, contact the FAA's Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) that oversees the operator. File complaints with the FAA's Hotline for safety violations or regulatory non-compliance. Consider reporting to the Better Business Bureau for business practice issues. For serious safety concerns, the Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) accepts confidential reports. Consumer protection agencies may help with contract or service disputes.