If you own or frequently travel on a private jet, you’re likely familiar with the unique conveniences of flying private. However, the experience is shaped by various federal regulations, particularly Part 91, that govern how private flight operations are conducted and what passengers can expect. Knowing these guidelines is essential, whether you’re an aircraft owner or choosing a private air charter.
Part 91, found in Title 14 of the FAA Code of Federal Regulations, outlines requirements for non-commercial general aviation operations. These regulations apply to private jet owners, aircraft management, fractional ownership, and flight schools, all operating outside the commercial sphere. Part 91 is reserved specifically for flights without compensation; in other words, passengers do not pay for transport under Part 91 operations.
For private jet owners, Part 91 offers fewer restrictions compared to commercial regulations, such as Part 135, but comes with essential responsibilities. Owners are responsible for ensuring safe flight operations, proper aircraft maintenance, and compliance with FAA standards, making Part 91 ideal for personal or corporate travel without hire.
When it comes to FAR Part 91 operations for non-commercial, personal, recreational, or corporate use, ensuring you have the right insurance coverage is crucial. These flights, though non-commercial, still carry risks that can result in significant liability, property damage, and unexpected costs.
Here’s an overview of the essential insurance coverages every FAR Part 91 operator should consider:
This coverage protects the physical value of your aircraft. Whether it’s a single-engine recreational plane or a high-end corporate jet, hull insurance covers damages from incidents like accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Policies can be adjusted for in-flight coverage, ground-only risks, or total loss scenarios, depending on your needs and the aircraft’s usage patterns.
Liability insurance is essential for any aircraft operator, covering potential legal and medical costs if your aircraft causes injury or damage to other people or property. This includes third-party liability, which is often required by law and recommended for any corporate or recreational flyer to avoid costly personal liability in case of an accident. Limits can vary, so choosing coverage that aligns with the potential risks of your flights is important.
For operators who carry passengers, whether corporate clients or friends and family, passenger liability insurance is vital. This coverage protects against claims from passengers injured during a flight. While Part 91 does not allow commercial operations, passenger liability ensures you’re covered for any unexpected medical expenses or claims from passengers in case of an incident.
If you or your employees frequently rent or borrow aircraft, non-owned aircraft liability insurance can help protect your company from liability if an accident occurs. This coverage is beneficial for those who may need to use different aircraft types for specific trips without owning them outright.
Medical payments coverage provides payment for minor injuries, covering medical bills for passengers and crew regardless of who is at fault. This no-fault coverage offers immediate support and peace of mind for operators concerned about their passengers’ well-being during personal or recreational flights.
Ground risk hull insurance specifically covers aircraft when it is not in flight operations. This includes “not-in-motion” coverage, which protects against risks while the aircraft is parked, and “in-motion” coverage, covering incidents like taxiing. This can be essential for aircraft that spend a significant amount of time grounded at airports or in hangars.
For corporate use especially, being without an aircraft due to repairs can disrupt operations. Loss of use coverage compensates for the revenue you lose while the aircraft is undergoing repairs. It ensures that an unexpected grounding does not affect your business continuity or finances.
Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Parts 91 and 135, established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), govern different types of aircraft operations. Part 91 covers non-commercial flights, while Part 135 applies to commercial air taxi flights and charter operations. Here are the primary distinctions to know:
Part 135 Operations: Part 135 requires a designated management team, including a chief pilot, maintenance manager, and operations manager, to oversee air taxi flights. This management crew ensures a clear chain of command and adherence to FAA standards before, during, and after each flight.
Part 91 Operations: These operations have more flexible rest requirements, allowing pilots to fly continuously without mandatory rest periods.
Part 135 Operations: To prioritize safety, Part 135 enforces strict rest periods for pilots between flights, which are crucial for managing fatigue during commercial operations.
Part 91 Operations: Under Part 91, it is technically permissible to operate in zero visibility, as these non-commercial operations have fewer restrictions on weather conditions.
Part 135 Operations: Part 135 restricts takeoffs in zero-visibility conditions and requires access to airports with on-site weather reporting, adding an extra layer of safety for passengers.
Part 91 Operations: Pilots can use any runway length within the aircraft’s performance limits.
Part 135 Operations: Part 135 requires minimum runway lengths for safe takeoffs and landings, ensuring additional safeguards during commercial operations.
Part 91 Operations: Passengers on non-commercial flights are generally not required to present identification for domestic travel.
Part 135 Operations: Passengers over the age of 18 must present government-issued identification, as is standard for commercial airline flights.
Knowing the differences between Part 91 and Part 135 operations helps you make informed decisions about private aircraft use, safety, and regulatory compliance.
Safety: Tighter regulations in Part 135 operations offer more safety measures, which can provide peace of mind for commercial passengers.
Regulatory Compliance: Following the correct federal aviation regulations avoids potential penalties and ensures you remain compliant with FAA standards.
Intended Use: Aligning the intended use of your private jet with the appropriate FAR operations—either Part 91 or Part 135—ensures the best and safest outcomes for your needs.
To operate a private jet under Part 91, owners must meet certain FAA criteria that cover pilot qualifications, flight procedures, and maintenance protocols. Here’s a breakdown of the major requirements:
Pilot and Crew Qualifications: The jet owner must ensure that the pilot and any crew members meet specific training and familiarity standards with the aircraft, including adherence to the aircraft’s manual.
Aircraft Maintenance: Federal regulations mandate routine maintenance and inspections to maintain aircraft safety and compliance. Proper record-keeping of all maintenance activities is required by the FAA, with an emphasis on keeping safety systems operational.
In-Flight Procedures and Safety Equipment: Part 91 requires private jet operators to have emergency equipment onboard and to follow set procedures, including having detailed checklists for various flight phases. Operators must also be prepared for varying weather conditions, adhering to visual flight rules (VFR) and instrument flight rules (IFR) as specified.
Understanding Part 91 is crucial for private jet owners and anyone considering private air charters, as it directly impacts the flexibility and requirements of private flight operations. Here’s why:
Safety and Responsibility: Part 91 makes the aircraft owner responsible for ensuring the highest safety standards for all on board and for the public.
Regulatory Compliance: By following Part 91, owners avoid penalties and maintain compliance with federal aviation administration regulations.
Flexibility in Use: The less restrictive nature of Part 91 allows owners to enjoy private jet use for personal or business purposes without the operational requirements of commercial flights, as long as they remain non-commercial.
Whether you’re exploring private air charters or maintaining your own jet, understanding Part 91 helps you navigate the requirements for safe, compliant, and flexible private aviation. Having the right insurance protections in place is crucial for Part 91 operators who want peace of mind while using their aircraft. Each policy can be tailored to fit the unique needs of personal, recreational, or corporate flights. Working with a trusted insurance provider experienced in aviation can help you select coverage that minimizes risks and keeps your aircraft and passengers protected.
