Carriage of persons without compliance with the passenger-carrying provisions of this part

This regulation allows Part 135 operators (charter and commuter flights) to carry certain people without meeting all the usual passenger-carrying requirements. This matters because Part 135 has strict rules about passenger operations, but these specific individuals aren't really "passengers" in the traditional sense.

The regulation permits carrying:

• The operator's own crewmembers and employees
• Animal handlers needed for safe transport of animals
• Hazmat handlers required for dangerous goods
• Security or honor guards accompanying government shipments
• Military couriers on military cargo contracts
• FAA inspectors conducting oversight
• People authorized by the FAA to perform cargo-related duties
• DOD evaluators conducting inspections

These individuals are typically performing work functions related to the flight or cargo operation rather than simply traveling as passengers. This exemption allows operators to conduct cargo and specialized operations efficiently without applying passenger-focused regulations to working personnel.

*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.*