When it comes to private aviation safety and compliance are paramount. The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) is committed to promoting the highest standards in the industry, and one critical issue we aim to address is illegal air charter. These non-compliant operations, whether intentional or due to a lack of knowledge, pose significant risks to passengers, operators, and the industry’s reputation.
ACSF Safety Advocate sponsor, Priester Aviation, has published an insightful article titled Understanding Illegal Air Charter: What You Need to Know to Stay Compliant and Safe. Diving into the complexities of illegal charter operations, the article goes on to explain what an illegal charter operation actually is, their potential consequences, and how to protect yourself. From unauthorized by-the-seat charters to sham leasing arrangements and fractional ownership abuse, the article highlights the various forms illegal charters can take and why they undermine safety and regulatory standards.
Priester Aviation emphasizes that education is key to preventing illegal charters. By working with certified, reputable operators and asking critical questions—such as whether the flight operates under a Part 135 certificate or if the pilots are properly certified—you can ensure your travel is both safe and compliant. The article also sheds light on the FAA and NTSB’s increased focus on these operations, especially in the context of the growing “shared economy” trend, which can blur the lines of regulatory oversight.
For a deeper understanding of this critical topic and practical steps to stay safe, we highly recommend reading the full article on Priester Aviation’s website.
To learn more about FAA regulations and guidelines on charter operations, visit faa.gov/charter. Let’s continue working together to keep safety first in private aviation.