What is the difference between a commercial operator and an air carrier? What certificates do you need for both? I saw somewhere online that you need an operating certificate for both air carrier and commercial operator, but then when do you need an air carrier certificate?
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
4
-
1$\begingroup$ Maybe this post helps: What is the difference between an air carrier and a commercial operator?? $\endgroup$– QuintenOct 16, 2022 at 15:04
-
$\begingroup$ Yeah but that post says you need an operating certificate for both air carrier and commercial operator but I thought air carriers used an air carrier certificate and not an operating certificate. I understand both are under 119. $\endgroup$– Maggie MayfieldOct 16, 2022 at 15:09
-
2$\begingroup$ This is a very broad question as it's worded. These terms have both generic definitions and specific ones, and they are sometimes used interchangeably in casual conversation. If that linked question didn't answer it for you perhaps you need to narrow it down, or help us understand your reason for asking. $\endgroup$– Michael HallOct 16, 2022 at 16:20
-
$\begingroup$ I would like to know for my own understanding. $\endgroup$– Maggie MayfieldOct 16, 2022 at 17:21
Add a comment
|
1 Answer
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
In broad general terms, "commercial operator" just means an operator who works for pay. This could be a crop duster, flight school, or major international airline. (Not limited to aviation, a backhoe operator meets this definition...)
An "air carrier" is an operator who carries things by air - passengers or cargo.
Every air carrier is also a commercial operator, but not every commercial operator is an air carrier. The specific FAA operating certificate required depends on factors beyond these basic definitions.
For example, a flight school could be certified under part 141, or could offer instruction under part 61. An airline offering scheduled passenger service would need an operating certificate under either part 135, or 121.
answered Oct 17, 2022 at 2:28