The aviation industry offers exciting opportunities, and a Part 135 First Officer position is a coveted role for many aspiring pilots. This guide delves into the specifics of these jobs, providing insights into the requirements, career progression, and challenges involved. We'll also address common questions surrounding these positions.
What is a Part 135 First Officer?
A Part 135 First Officer works for an air carrier operating under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 regulations. This part covers on-demand (charter) and scheduled air transportation, encompassing a wide range of operations, including:
- Corporate aviation: Transporting executives and company personnel.
- Medical flights (air ambulance): Transporting patients requiring urgent medical care.
- Cargo operations: Transporting goods and packages.
- Aerial photography/survey: Conducting aerial surveys or capturing images from the air.
Unlike Part 121 operations (major airlines), Part 135 operations tend to be more flexible and involve a wider variety of aircraft types and missions. As First Officer, you'll assist the Captain in all aspects of flight operations, including pre-flight planning, in-flight duties, and post-flight procedures.
What are the Requirements for a Part 135 First Officer Position?
Requirements vary depending on the specific operator and aircraft type, but generally include:
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL): This is a fundamental requirement.
- Instrument Rating (IR): Essential for flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
- Multi-Engine Rating (ME): Necessary for operating multi-engine aircraft.
- Type Rating (if applicable): Some aircraft require a type rating specific to that model.
- Minimum flight hours: This typically ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 hours, but some operators may require more.
- Medical Certificate: A valid FAA medical certificate (Class I or II, depending on the operator).
Some employers may also prefer candidates with additional qualifications, such as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating or experience in specific operational environments.
What is the Salary of a Part 135 First Officer?
Salary for a Part 135 First Officer varies significantly based on factors including:
- Operator: Larger companies generally offer higher salaries.
- Aircraft type: Operating larger or more complex aircraft often comes with higher pay.
- Experience: More experienced pilots command higher salaries.
- Location: Salaries can differ based on geographical location.
While a precise salary range is difficult to pinpoint, researching specific operator websites and salary aggregation sites can provide a better understanding of compensation within your area of interest.
How Much Does a Part 135 First Officer Make a Year? (PAA Question)
This is difficult to answer precisely without knowing the specifics mentioned above. However, you can expect a range depending on the factors listed in the previous section. Research specific companies and locations to find more precise figures. Websites specializing in aviation salaries can be helpful.
What are the Career Progression Opportunities? (PAA Question)
Career progression in Part 135 operations typically involves advancing to Captain within the same operator, often after accumulating sufficient flight hours and experience. From there, pilots may move into management positions within the company, or seek opportunities at other Part 135 or even Part 121 operators.
What are the Benefits of Working as a Part 135 First Officer? (PAA Question)
Benefits vary by operator, but can include:
- Variety of flying: Experience with different aircraft and mission types.
- Faster upgrade to Captain: Often quicker than in Part 121 operations.
- Potential for higher earnings: Depending on the operation and flight time, earnings can be competitive.
What are the Challenges of a Part 135 First Officer Job? (PAA Question)
Challenges can include:
- Irregular schedules: Part 135 operations often involve unpredictable schedules and on-call availability.
- Variety of aircraft and operations: Requires adaptability and the ability to handle diverse situations.
- Safety and regulatory compliance: Stringent safety regulations require meticulous attention to detail.
Conclusion
A Part 135 First Officer position is an exciting step in a pilot's career, offering a diverse range of experiences and the potential for rapid advancement. While challenges exist, the rewards of flying diverse missions, potentially earning a competitive salary, and gaining valuable experience are highly attractive to ambitious pilots. Remember to thoroughly research individual operators and their specific requirements before applying.
