The allure of a Part 135 First Officer position is strong for many aspiring pilots. This segment of the aviation industry offers diverse opportunities, exciting flight schedules, and a pathway to significant career advancement. But navigating the job market requires understanding the nuances of Part 135 operations and knowing where to look for opportunities. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to successfully pursue your dream job.
What is Part 135 Operations?
Before diving into the job search, it's crucial to understand what Part 135 operations entail. Under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR Part 135), these operations encompass commercial air transport that doesn't fall under the stricter regulations of Part 121 (scheduled air carriers like major airlines). Part 135 encompasses a wide variety of services, including:
- Charter flights: Transporting passengers or cargo on a non-scheduled basis.
- Air ambulance: Emergency medical transportation.
- Aerial photography and surveying: Specialized flights requiring specific aircraft and pilot skills.
- Cargo transport: Moving goods via air.
This variety means Part 135 jobs offer greater operational diversity than a traditional airline role, often involving more challenging flying conditions and diverse aircraft types.
What are the Requirements for a Part 135 First Officer?
The specific requirements for a Part 135 First Officer vary depending on the operator and the aircraft type. However, some common prerequisites include:
- Commercial Pilot Certificate: This is a fundamental requirement for all commercial flying roles.
- Instrument Rating: Essential for flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
- Multi-engine rating: Necessary for operating multi-engine aircraft.
- ATP Certificate (Airline Transport Pilot Certificate): While not always required for all Part 135 operations, especially with smaller aircraft, it is becoming increasingly common, particularly for larger jets and operations. The specific requirements for an ATP certificate are detailed in 14 CFR Part 61.
- Type Rating (for specific aircraft types): Certain aircraft require specific type ratings. This depends heavily on the operator and the aircraft used.
- Medical Certificate: A valid medical certificate, class I, II, or III, depending on the specific operation.
- Experience: The minimum flight hours required can fluctuate, depending on the operator and aircraft. Expect a minimum of 1,500 hours of total flight time; however, many employers seek candidates with significantly more experience.
Remember to meticulously check the specific requirements of each operator you are applying to.
What are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Part 135 First Officer?
The First Officer's responsibilities in Part 135 operations are largely the same as in Part 121 but may involve more diverse tasks due to the operational flexibility of Part 135. These include:
- Assisting the Captain in all phases of flight: Pre-flight inspections, navigation, communication, and piloting the aircraft.
- Flight planning: Collaborating with the Captain in creating and reviewing flight plans.
- Compliance with regulations: Adhering to all applicable safety regulations and company policies.
- Maintaining aircraft logs and records: Accurate record-keeping is crucial for Part 135 operations.
- Emergency procedures: Proficiency in handling various emergency scenarios.
Where Can I Find Part 135 First Officer Jobs?
Several avenues exist for finding Part 135 First Officer positions:
- Aviation job boards: Websites like AviationJobs, FlightGlobal, and others specialize in aviation employment.
- Company websites: Directly checking the career pages of Part 135 operators is a highly effective approach.
- Networking: Attending aviation events and connecting with professionals in the industry can yield significant leads.
- Flight schools and training centers: Many flight schools have connections with Part 135 operators, providing graduates with employment opportunities.
How Much Do Part 135 First Officers Make?
Compensation varies widely depending on the operator, aircraft type, experience, and location. Factors such as contract terms and per diem also contribute to overall earnings. Researching specific operators and reviewing salary data from reliable sources is vital.
What are the Benefits of a Part 135 First Officer Position?
- Variety: Experience diverse aircraft types and flying environments.
- Experience building: Rapid accumulation of flight hours and experience.
- Flexibility: Part 135 operations often offer more flexible schedules than Part 121 airlines.
- Career progression: Can serve as a stepping stone to a Captain position within Part 135 or potentially even a Part 121 airline.
What are the Challenges of a Part 135 First Officer Position?
- Irregular schedules: This is common in Part 135, demanding adaptability and flexibility.
- Varying working conditions: You may encounter different aircraft types, challenging weather conditions, and less predictable schedules.
- Compensation: While the compensation can be competitive, it may not match the salaries offered by major airlines, especially early in your career.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Part 135 First Officer jobs. Remember that thorough research into specific operators and their requirements is crucial for a successful job search. Good luck on your path to becoming a Part 135 First Officer!
