Resources
ANNOUNCEMENT
The FAA Flight Standards Service (FS) is making key improvements to application processing by combining elements of the certification process.
Effective January 24, 2024, FS is utilizing a new process to increase applicant readiness for initial certifications, which is applicable to applicants for an air carrier, air operator, or air agency certificate, or the issuance of management specifications (MSpec) in accordance with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) parts 91 subpart K (part 91K), 125, 133, 135, 137, 141, 142, 145 (Domestic), and 147.
This new process is a continuation of our efforts to enhance the certification process. FS is committed to designing long term, sustainable improvements that reduce certification wait times and improve application processing times. Please see FAA Notice 8900.687 for further information.
Air Transportation Division 135 Flight Operations Section
Safety Assurance System (SAS)
- What is SAS? – An Overview for CH/As (PDF)
- SAS External Portal Information Guide
- SAS External Portal Access Request
- SAS Master List of Functions Chart, Table 10-1-2G Peer Groups, FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 10, Chapter 1, Section 2
- Safety Assurance System (SAS) Data Collection Tools (DCT) SPA/EPA/EDA
Certification Information
- Dynamic Regulatory System (DRS): 8900.1 Contents
- The Certification Process Flow Chart Figure 2-11, DRS Volume 2, Chapter 4, Section 1
- Schedule of Events (SOE) Figure 2-12, DRS Volume 2, Chapter 4, Section 1
- Flight Attendant Job Aid Figure 2-13, DRS Volume 2, Chapter 4, Section 1
- The Certification Process:
- Certification Services Oversight Process (CSOP), FAA Order 8900.1 Volume 11 Chapter 13 Section 1
- Deviations or Exemptions, FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 2, Chapter 4, Section 6, and Volume 3, Chapter 2, Section 1.
- Check Pilots, FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 3, Chapter 20, Section 5, Section 6, Section 7.
- Proving Runs and Validation Testing, FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 3, Chapter 29, Section 1, Section 2, Section 3, Section 4, Section 5, Section 8.
"How To" Resources
- DOT Economic Authority Request, How to Become a Certificated Air Carrier
- Drug and Alcohol Testing Program: How to Start a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
- Development of Hazardous Materials Training Program (AC 121-40)
- Advisory Circular, Introduction to Safety Management Systems for Air Operators (AC 120-92)
Forms
- Pre-application Statement of Intent (PASI) FAA Form 8400-6
- 135 Chief Pilot Experience Rating Worksheet (MS Excel)
- 135 Director of Operations Experience Rating Worksheet (MS Excel)
Sample Documents
- Lease or Proof of Ownership (PDF) and Facility Lease Agreements or Proof of Ownership
- Evidence of Economic Authority Request (PDF) and Corporate Documents
- EDA Self Audit (PDF)
- Outsourcing Contractual Agreement (PDF)