Applicability

What Operations Require Part 119 Certification?

Part 119 determines when you need an air carrier or operating certificate to conduct flights. It applies to three main scenarios:

You need Part 119 certification if you're:

• Operating as an air carrier or commercial operator in air commerce
• Flying large aircraft (20+ seats or 6,000+ pounds payload) even without common carriage
• Conducting private carriage for compensation in smaller aircraft (under 20 seats and 6,000 pounds payload), with limited exceptions

Part 119 doesn't apply to many common commercial operations, including most Part 91 flights, student instruction, ferry flights, aerial work (crop dusting, banner towing, aerial photography), certain sightseeing tours, and small UAS operations. Hot air balloon rides and limited helicopter operations (maximum two passengers, six flights per year, with FAA approval) are also exempt.

This regulation essentially draws the line between operations you can conduct under Part 91 versus those requiring the more stringent oversight of Parts 121, 125, or 135.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*