The FAA this week issued long-awaited guidance providing a new consensus-based standardized approach to Part 135 training. Industry officials have characterized the reforms as the most significant changes in training for charter operations in years.

 FAA Advisory Circular 142-1, "Standardized Curricula Delivered by Part 142 Training Centers," is the culmination of several years of collaborative efforts between the FAA, industry associations, operators and stakeholders through the Air Carrier Training Aviation Rulemaking Committee. The formal guidance was issued following the release of draft guidance in fall 2018.

Under the new—and voluntary—approach, the curriculum would be standardized at the national level, rather than have each program crafted at the operator level. In a joint statement, NBAA and NATA said the new curriculum would streamline relationships between Part 142 training centers and on-demand carriers and reduces inefficiencies. Officials have said this is particularly helpful as pilots switch carriers and further eliminates the paperwork burden associated with a requirement that individual instructors must be qualified to train for each specific program.

A key aspect of the guidance is the creation of a government/industry Training Standardization Working Group to develop standardized training procedures for common aircraft types. While the approach is voluntary, the FAA believes most Part 135 operators will opt for the standardized option.

“We applaud the FAA’s effort during these difficult times to deliver guidance that significantly heightens safety standards and creates a dynamic, responsive, and more efficient pilot training program,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen.

“NATA is pleased about this exciting advancement in Part 135 training that provides efficiency and safety gains for both operators and the FAA alike,” added NATA president and CEO Timothy Obitts.