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FAA Tightens Oversight on Part 135 Operators with New Focus on Safety, Training and Operational Control

Wed, Apr 15, 2026

FAA Tightens Oversight on Part 135 Operators with New Focus on Safety, Training and Operational Control

The Federal Aviation Administration is refining its oversight priorities for Part 135 operators, placing increased emphasis on operational control, training compliance and Safety Management Systems. The move reflects a broader push to strengthen safety and accountability across the charter and on-demand aviation sector.

Operational control is a key focus area, with regulators ensuring that certificate holders maintain clear authority over flight planning, crew assignments and dispatch decisions. This is particularly important in complex or high-tempo operations where responsibilities can become blurred.

Training compliance is also under closer review. The FAA is reinforcing requirements around recurrent training, qualification tracking and standardisation across crews to ensure consistent performance and regulatory alignment.

In addition, Safety Management Systems are becoming a central pillar of oversight. Operators are expected to demonstrate proactive risk identification, reporting culture and continuous safety improvement rather than reactive compliance.

These updates signal a more structured and data-driven regulatory approach, encouraging operators to strengthen internal processes, documentation and oversight. For Part 135 operators, aligning with these priorities will be essential to maintain compliance and operational integrity.

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