Amending a certificate

This regulation explains how an air carrier's operating certificate can be changed. The FAA may amend a certificate on its own initiative if safety requires it, or at the carrier's request if safety allows it.

When a certificate holder wants to amend their certificate, they must file an application with their responsible Flight Standards office at least 15 days before the desired effective date (unless the FAA approves a shorter timeframe). The application must follow the FAA's prescribed format.

If the FAA proposes to amend, suspend, or revoke a certificate, formal procedures under Part 13 apply, giving the certificate holder due process rights. If the FAA denies a requested amendment, the certificate holder can petition for reconsideration to the Executive Director of Flight Standards Service within 30 days of receiving the denial notice.

This matters because it establishes the formal process for modifying operating authorities and provides appeal rights when changes are denied or imposed.

*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.*