NBAA, Charter Operators Applaud Removal of Requirement

A final rule just published by the FAA provides relief for check pilots and flight instructors in Part 135 commuter and on-demand operators who are performing those duties in aircraft, so they are no longer required to have a medical certificate. 

The rule also clears up inconsistencies in different areas of the regulations for medical certificate requirements for those serving as required flight crew members or not, and also inconsistencies between requirements for Part 121 and Part 135 operators.

Under the previous rule, Part 135 operators often were faced with difficulties and delays finding flight instructors and check pilots who had the requisite knowledge, skills, and experience but were not medically eligible. The new rule clarifies that check pilots and flight instructors are required to have the appropriate medical only when serving as required flight crew members in an aircraft.

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has voiced its support for the new rule. Melanie Hight Viau, charter captain and Part 135 training instructor at OpenAir said, “This final rule will be well-received by the industry after years of challenges related to availability of check pilots.” She continued, “This grants a little bit of relief for operators who want to continue involving experienced pilots who still want to participate in the industry. There’s a lot to be said for sharing that valuable experience.”

FMI:  nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/part-135/, www.federalregister.gov