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

This regulation established the timeline for certain Part 135 operators to transition to Part 121 rules when operating larger aircraft in scheduled passenger service. It applies to operators flying scheduled passenger flights in turbopropeller aircraft with 10-30 seats or turbojets with 1-30 seats.

Operators certificated before January 1996 had to obtain Part 121 operations specifications by March 1997 and comply with Part 121 requirements, though some equipment requirements had delayed compliance dates extending to 2010. New entrants applying after January 1996 must comply with Part 121 from the start.

The regulation includes specific deadlines for installing safety equipment like attitude indicators, lavatory fire protection, and emergency exit lighting, with different dates depending on aircraft type and manufacture date. Aircraft manufactured after certain dates had to meet stricter requirements immediately. This transition moved regional airline operations from less stringent Part 135 rules to the more comprehensive Part 121 safety standards.

*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.*