Applicability

This regulation introduces the subpart that establishes the rules governing when Part 135 operators (commuter and on-demand air carriers) can fly under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) versus Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), along with the weather minimums required for each type of operation.

In practical terms, this subpart tells Part 135 pilots and operators what weather conditions they need to legally conduct flights, whether they're flying VFR or IFR. It sets the boundaries for operational decision-making based on visibility, cloud clearances, and other meteorological factors.

This matters because Part 135 operations have different—often more restrictive—weather requirements than Part 91 general aviation flights. As a commercial operator carrying passengers or cargo for hire, you must comply with these specific limitations. The regulations that follow in this subpart detail exactly what those weather minimums and operational restrictions are for your certificate type and the kind of flying you're doing.

*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.*