Charter Flight Operations and Part 135 Compliance Checklist

This charter flight operations and Part 135 compliance checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 135 (Air Taxi and Commercial Operators), FAA Operations Specifications (OpSpec) for on-demand charter operations, and FAA-approved Company Operations Manual requirements. Designed for charter operator Directors of Operations and Chief Pilots to verify regulatory compliance for each charter flight.

  • Industry: Aviation
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Director of Operations / Chief Pilot
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 135 Air Taxi and Commercial Operators, FAA AC 135-42 Extended Operations, FAA Operations Specifications (OpSpec) Charter, FAA 14 CFR Part 135.63 Recordkeeping Requirements, NATA Safety First Charter Operator Program

Pilot Qualifications

PIC and SIC qualification verification.

  • PIC holding ATP certificate with aircraft category/class?
  • PIC holding type rating for aircraft (if required)?
  • PIC medical certificate current?
  • PIC meets recent flight experience requirements per FAR 135.247?
  • PIC proficiency check current within 12 months?

Aircraft Requirements

Aircraft airworthiness for charter.

  • Aircraft maintenance release current?
  • MEL reviewed - no deferred items preventing charter operation?
  • Supplemental oxygen on board per altitude requirements?
  • Flotation equipment on board for overwater operations?
  • ELT on board and operational?

Passenger Manifest and Briefing

Passenger documentation and safety briefing.

  • Passenger manifest completed and filed?
  • Passenger safety briefing conducted (exits, seatbelts, oxygen)?
  • Passenger and baggage weights obtained for weight and balance?
  • Passengers asked about hazardous materials?
  • Each passenger has an individual seat and seatbelt?

Flight Release

Flight authorization documentation.

  • Flight release issued per FAA 135.63 requirements?
  • Weather briefing obtained and conditions meet Part 135 minimums?
  • NOTAMs reviewed for all airports in flight plan?
  • Fuel meets Part 135 requirements (VFR 30 min; IFR 45 min reserve)?
  • Alternate airport filed if required by Part 135.223?

Duty and Rest Requirements

Part 135 duty time compliance.

  • Pilot flight time within Part 135.267 limits (8 hr/24 hr period)?
  • PIC had minimum 8-hour rest opportunity before duty?
  • Crew members confirmed not under influence of alcohol or drugs?
  • PIC self-certified fit for duty?
  • Cumulative 30/90 day and annual flight time limits within limits?

Charter Records

Required charter documentation.

  • Flight log updated with all required information?
  • Passenger manifest copy retained per Part 135.63?
  • Charter contract or trip sheet complete?
  • Completed weight and balance retained?
  • Charter Flight Notes

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Why Use This Charter Flight Operations and Part 135 Compliance Checklist?

This charter flight operations and part 135 compliance checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for director of operations / chief pilot professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 135 Air Taxi and Commercial Operators, FAA AC 135-42 Extended Operations, FAA Operations Specifications (OpSpec) Charter, FAA 14 CFR Part 135.63 Recordkeeping Requirements, NATA Safety First Charter Operator Program. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Charter Flight Operations and Part 135 Compliance Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Pilot Qualifications, Aircraft Requirements, Passenger Manifest and Briefing, Flight Release, Duty and Rest Requirements, Charter Records. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Charter Flight Operations and Part 135 Compliance Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Director of Operations / Chief Pilot professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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