Airbus’ ACJ318 and ACJ319 have gained EASA, FAA and GACA eligibility for Part 135 operations, while a variant of its ACJ319 has also gained CAAC eligibility, making it easier for operators to seek and obtain approval to carry fare-paying charter passengers. Operators previously had to undergo a more demanding approval process, such as Part 121, which is similar to the more comprehensive approval required of an airline. The simpler requirements of Federal Airworthiness Regulation (FAR) Part 135 recognise that business jet operators typically carry fewer passengers, fly less frequently and operate in a less demanding environment.
While it is the operator that seeks and obtains Part 135 approval, the aircraft involved need to comply with several requirements, and it is this eligibility that has been granted to the Airbus corporate jets. These requirements include that the Airbus corporate jets and their cabins be certificated for public transport, that the number of seats certificated for taxi, take-off and landing be less than 30, and that the payload be limited to 7,500 lb/3,400 kg.
