Compliance schedule for operators that transition to part 121; certain new entrant operators

This regulation established the timeline and requirements for operators transitioning from Part 135 to Part 121 operations when flying certain aircraft (10-30 seat turboprops and 1-30 seat turbojets) in scheduled passenger service.

It applied to two groups: existing Part 135 operators conducting these flights before January 1996, and new operators applying after that date. Existing operators had to obtain Part 121 operations specifications by March 20, 1997, and generally comply with all Part 121 rules from that date forward.

However, the regulation provided delayed compliance dates for specific equipment requirements—some extending to December 2010—allowing operators time to retrofit aircraft with items like third attitude indicators, improved emergency exit signs, and enhanced fire protection systems. Newly manufactured aircraft had stricter timelines. Any aircraft with type certificate applications filed after March 1995 must be certified under Part 25 (transport category standards) to operate under Part 121.

*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.*