Part 135 Safety Standards in Private Aviation: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Private aviation offers unmatched flexibility—but behind every chartered flight are detailed safety rules that protect passengers, pilots, and aircraft. These rules are outlined under FAA Part 135, which governs the operation of non-scheduled charter flights. If you’re considering booking a private flight, understanding what Part 135 means is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

What Is Part 135 and Why Does It Matter?

Part 135 is a section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that governs commercial air charter operators. These rules are far more stringent than those under Part 91, which apply to non-commercial or corporate flights.

Under Part 135, operators must adhere to:

• Operational control protocols
• Defined pilot duty and rest periods
• Mandatory drug and alcohol testing
• Weather planning and route verification standards

These regulations ensure that flights are conducted with commercial-level oversight, reducing the risk of accidents and improving accountability.

Pilot Requirements Under Part 135

Pilots flying under Part 135 must meet elevated qualifications that ensure they are fit and trained for commercial operations.

Minimum requirements include:

• A commercial pilot certificate
• At least 1,200 hours of flight time (for captains)
• Initial and recurrent training, often including simulator-based emergency training
• Medical certificates to prove physical and mental fitness

The FAA also limits the number of hours pilots can fly per day or week, helping to reduce fatigue-related risks.

Maintenance Standards for Part 135 Aircraft

Aircraft under Part 135 certification are subject to stringent maintenance schedules and inspections, far more demanding than private-use aircraft.

Standards include:

• 100-hour inspections for all charter aircraft
• Maintenance by FAA-certified technicians or approved repair stations
• Strict use of approved parts and documentation
• Detailed maintenance logs accessible for FAA audits

Operators must also follow Minimum Equipment Lists (MELs) that dictate which systems must be functional for a flight to be legally dispatched.

Questions to Ask Before You Charter

To ensure you’re flying with a reputable operator under Part 135, ask:

• Are you a certified Part 135 operator?
• What are your pilots’ total flight hours?
• How often is the aircraft maintained and inspected?
• Are you subject to third-party safety audits (e.g., ARGUS or Wyvern)?

Conclusion: Part 135 Is the Backbone of Private Aviation Safety

Private aviation combines convenience with elevated responsibility. FAA Part 135 regulations serve as the foundation of safe charter operations, ensuring your flight is crewed, maintained, and managed to the highest standards.

Before you fly, take a moment to ask the right questions and verify your operator’s compliance. It’s your right—and it’s your safety.