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Basic and Standard (Full) Part 135 Certifications

A clear, updated overview of FAA requirements for Basic 135 and Standard (Full) 135 applicants — covering eligibility, manuals, SMS, certification phases, proving runs, and required management positions.

Basics & Eligibility

  1. Exclusive use of at least one Part 135-configured aircraft.
  2. Qualified pilot(s) meeting Part 119 experience requirements.
  3. Principal Base of Operations (PBO) with sustainable facilities/systems including flight following, records, and maintenance tracking.
  4. All application items submitted and tracked via the SAS External Portal.

First-time applicants should expect meaningful prep and FAA review cycles. ACCG streamlines your Schedule of Events and document submissions.

Basic 135 vs Standard 135 Certification Comparison

Basic 135

  • Limited size/scope with authorized deviations per FAA guidance.
  • Requires manuals, training program, and management positions (with allowed limits).
  • Ideal for operators with smaller fleets and specific operational needs.

Standard (Full) 135

  • No preset limits; capabilities added via OpSpecs.
  • Requires full manuals, training programs, and fully qualified management positions.
  • Best for operators intending to scale aircraft, pilots, or service areas.

The FAA’s Five Certification Phases

  1. Phase 1 — Pre-Application: SAS Portal account creation, PASI submission, and initial FSDO meeting.
  2. Phase 2 — Formal Application: Submit formal letter, Schedule of Events, aircraft/facility documentation, and resumes.
  3. Phase 3 — Document Compliance: FAA reviews manuals, training curriculum, MEL, and compliance statements.
  4. Phase 4 — Demonstration & Inspection: Records/Facilities reviews and proving/validation tests.
  5. Phase 5 — Administrative: Final FAA authorization and issuance of OpSpecs.

New for 2025: The FAA requires completion of the Applicant Readiness Checklist (ARC) before advancing to Phase 3.

Required Manuals & Programs

For All Basic & Standard Applicants

  • Statement of Compliance (reg-by-reg).
  • General Operations Manual (GOM) including operational control, records, and maintenance procedures.
  • Training Program & Curriculums (indoctrination, aircraft, emergency, maintenance).
  • MEL/Configuration Deviation List + related procedures.
  • Hazardous Materials Program & training (as applicable).
  • Safety Management System (SMS) aligned with current FAA rulemaking.

Maintenance Requirements

  • 9 or fewer seats: Maintenance guidance normally included in the GOM.
  • 10+ seats or turbojet: Expanded maintenance/inspection program and a dedicated manual.
  • Programs may reference manufacturer content, AAIP, or CAMP.

Required Management Positions (Part 119.69)

Basic applicants may qualify for deviations. Standard operators must meet full Part 119.71 qualifications.

Proving Runs & Validation

FAA may require proving tests depending on aircraft type and operational scope. ACCG prepares required test plans, checklists, and records to speed acceptance.

How ACCG Supports Your Certification

Official FAA Resources

Basic vs Standard 135 — FAA Overview Part 135 Certification — Phases & Gates SAS External Portal (PASI) Management Personnel — 14 CFR 119.69 Maintenance — 14 CFR 135.411

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