FAA Part 135.
FAA Part 135 is the section of Title 14 of the United States Code of Federal Regulations that governs commuter and on-demand operations by certificate holders, including on-demand air charter. Part 135 sets crew qualification, duty time, maintenance and operating rules that are stricter than the general rules of Part 91 that apply to private, non-commercial flying.
| Term | FAA Part 135 |
|---|---|
| Used in | Private aviation, charter brokerage and operations |
| Related terms | FAA Part 91, Air operator certificate (AOC), Aircraft operator |
| Sources | 2 listed below |
What does FAA Part 135 mean in practice?
If you charter in the United States, the aircraft should be flown under Part 135.
The regulation applies to the commuter or on-demand operations of anyone who holds, or must hold, an air carrier or operating certificate under Part 119. In practice that means the operator has an FAA certificate, its pilots meet Part 135 experience and checking requirements, their duty hours are limited, and the aircraft is maintained under an approved programme. NBAA describes Part 135 as the framework for on-demand, unscheduled air charter carriers. Brokers should be able to name the Part 135 certificate holder for any US flight they arrange. If the operator cannot be named, or the aircraft is being offered by its owner under Part 91, do not book. The FAA has pursued enforcement against illegal charter, and passengers on such flights may find their insurance position uncertain.
Questions
What does FAA Part 135 mean?
FAA Part 135 is the section of Title 14 of the United States Code of Federal Regulations that governs commuter and on-demand operations by certificate holders, including on-demand air charter. Part 135 sets crew qualification, duty time, maintenance and operating rules that are stricter than the general rules of Part 91 that apply to private, non-commercial flying.
Sources
- 14 CFR 135.1 Applicability (Cornell LII) (accessed 2026-09-20)
- NBAA: Aircraft Operations (accessed 2026-09-20)
Last reviewed 20 September 2026 by Empty Leg Exclusive Editorial Team.