REGULATION · GLOSSARY
Part 135
The US Federal Aviation Regulation that governs on-demand commercial charter operations — the certificate every legal US charter operator holds.
IN PRACTICE
Part 135 sets rules on crew training, flight and duty time, aircraft maintenance, weather minimums and operational control. It is the legal foundation that separates a paid charter flight from a non-commercial Part 91 private flight.
If an operator cannot produce a Part 135 certificate, the flight is illegal — both for the operator and arguably for the passenger.
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Frequently asked
What does Part 135 mean in private aviation?
The US Federal Aviation Regulation that governs on-demand commercial charter operations — the certificate every legal US charter operator holds.
Which authority enforces part 135?
In the United States, the FAA (under 14 CFR) is the lead authority. In Europe, EASA sets the framework, implemented by national CAAs. Operators flying internationally must comply with the regulation of every state they operate to.
Does part 135 affect the price or availability of a charter?
Indirectly, yes. Regulatory requirements drive operator costs, callout times and route options, which flow through to charter pricing and aircraft availability.
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