Business

FAA Moves to Restrict Public Charter Flights

The new regulatory change may shake-up business models for carriers like JSX.

Ryan Ewing

Monday, June 17, 2024 at 02:04 PM ET

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Edited By: tccjeremy

A JSX E-145 in Austin. The airline exclusively operates the Embraer jet. [Courtesy: AirlineGeeks | Mateen Kontoravdis]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is proposing to revise regulations for public charter operators like JSX, aiming to subject them to the same stringent safety standards as major airlines for operations that are effectively scheduled flights.
Major airlines and pilot unions advocate for these changes, citing safety concerns and a regulatory "loophole," while JSX argues its safety record is excellent and stricter rules would stifle innovation and service to smaller communities.
The FAA plans to launch a risk assessment panel to evaluate a new operating authority for scheduled Part 135 operations in 10-30 seat aircraft, balancing consistent safety with the goal of connecting small and rural communities.
Separately, the TSA is also reviewing security requirements for public charter operators due to concerns over the lack of traditional passenger screening.

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The FAA is moving to revise a regulation governing public charter operators. This change comes after scrutiny of the current rules, particularly regarding carriers like JSX that operate scheduled flights with smaller aircraft (30 seats or less) while following less stringent regulations compared to major airlines.

“Part of the safety mission of the FAA is identifying risk early on, and that’s exactly what we’re doing on public charters as usage expands,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker in a statement. “If a company is effectively operating as a scheduled airline, the FAA needs to determine whether those operations should follow the same stringent rules as scheduled airlines.”

Ryan Ewing

Ryan is Group President for Firecrown's Aviation Group. In 2013, he founded AirlineGeeks.com, a leading trade publication covering the airline industry. Since then, his work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the airline industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Previously, he worked for a Part 135 operator and later a major airline. Ryan is also an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.