Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operations
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 8900.766 for further information.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)- Agricultural Aircraft Operations are regulated in accordance with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 137.
A Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operations applicant may be issued a Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operating certificate per 14 CFR Part 137.
Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operations Certification
The 14 CFR Part 137 certification process provides for interaction between the applicant and the FAA from initial inquiry to certificate issuance. The process ensures that programs, systems, and intended methods of compliance are thoroughly reviewed, evaluated, and tested. Any questions about this process should be directed to the nearest Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).
There are 5 phases in the certification process:
Phase 1 - Preapplication and Phase 2 - Formal Application, are combined through the use of the Applicant Readiness Checklist (see below).
Phase 3 - Document Compliance, is that part of the certification process where the applicant’s required documents are reviewed and either approved or rejected.
Phase 4 - Demonstration and Inspection is that part of the certification process where the certification team inspects the applicant’s facilities, equipment, and observes personnel in the performance of their duties. Emphasis in this phase is on compliance with regulations and safe operating practices.
Phase 5 – Certification, when all the regulatory requirements have been met, and all other certification phases have been completed successfully the applicant will be issued a Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operating certificate as per 14 CFR Part 137.
Applicant Resources. The applicant is responsible to prepare themselves for certification. If an applicant is not prepared for the certification application process, the FS office should direct them to the certification resources at https://www.faa.gov, or DRS, or they should consult with other external sources. The certification process flowchart included below provides an overview of the Part 137 certification process. The applicant should be familiar with the certification and operating requirements of part 137 and the following:
- Applicant Readiness Checklist
- Withdrawal or Denial Process;
- The definition and general applicability of terms;
- The certification requirements;
- The operating rules;
- Part 137 recordkeeping requirements; and
- The requirement to comply with other Federal, state, and local regulations.
Special Considerations for Part 137:
- Private or Commercial Operations;
- Qualifications and experience required for Chief Supervisor (if applicable);
- Restricted category aircraft.
Forms
- Letter of Intent
- The Application Form, FAA Form 8710-3
- FAA Form 8430-21 Operating Certificate. (This form is available only to FAA personnel)
References
- Title 14 CFR Parts 1, 21, 27, 29, 61, 91, 133 and 137.
- Advisory Circular (AC) 137-1, Certification Process for Agricultural Aircraft Operators.
Other Documents
- Applicant Readiness Checklist
- 14 CFR part 137 Certification Process Flowchart
- Withdrawal or Denial Process