FAA Part 91 vs Part 135: What Owners Should Know
Understanding the key regulatory differences between private and commercial aircraft operations — and what it means for your aircraft.
If you own a private aircraft, understanding the difference between FAA Part 91 and Part 135 is one of the most important distinctions in aviation. These two regulations govern completely different types of operations, and confusing them — or operating under the wrong one — can have serious legal and safety consequences.
Part 91: Private Operations
FAR Part 91 governs non-commercial civil aircraft operations. If you fly your own aircraft for personal or business travel without compensation, you operate under Part 91. The rules are relatively flexible, giving pilots and operators significant latitude in how they operate — but the aircraft owner bears full responsibility for airworthiness and compliance.
Part 91 operations include owner-flown aircraft, corporate flight departments, and managed aircraft that do not carry passengers for hire.
Part 135: Commercial Air Carrier Operations
FAR Part 135 governs on-demand and commuter air carrier operations — essentially, flying passengers for compensation. Charter operators, air taxis, and fractional ownership programs operating commercially are regulated under Part 135.
Part 135 imposes significantly more stringent requirements than Part 91: more rigorous pilot training and checking, stricter crew rest rules, mandatory dispatch and flight release procedures, higher maintenance standards, and extensive operational control requirements. An operator must hold a Part 135 certificate issued by the FAA to legally carry passengers for hire.
Why the Distinction Matters
Many aircraft owners are approached about placing their aircraft on a charter certificate to offset ownership costs. While this can make financial sense, it fundamentally changes how your aircraft is operated and maintained. Your aircraft transitions from Part 91 to Part 135 oversight — with all the added regulatory burden that entails.
SKYLINK manages aircraft under Part 91. We do not hold a Part 135 certificate. This keeps our focus on what we do best: providing exceptional private management for aircraft owners who want their asset operated with precision, transparency, and care — not treated as a revenue-generating charter asset.
Understanding which regulation governs your operation is foundational. If you have questions about your aircraft's regulatory status, we're always available to help you think it through.