Part 135 Training at LOFT

Partner with a Part 142 Training Center Built by Career Aviators

We’ll Guide You Through the Process

If your charter operation is exploring partnership with a Part 142 training center for the first time, you’re likely navigating questions about OpSpecs, POI coordination, and FAA approvals. We understand the process can feel complex. With over 15 years of experience guiding operators through it, we’re here to make it clear and manageable.

At LOFT, we’ve supported hundreds of Part 135 operators through initial onboarding, recurrent training cycles, and proficiency checks. As career aviators ourselves, we understand what charter operations require: reliable training that keeps your pilots sharp, your operation compliant, and your schedule on track.

What is Part 135 Training at a Part 142 Training Center?

Part 135 charter operators are required to provide ongoing training and checking for their pilots under FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 135 Subpart H). While some operators manage this internally, many partner with Part 142 training centers like LOFT to deliver:

  • Initial Training – First-time qualification on an aircraft type
  • Transition Training – Moving between aircraft types in the same crew position
  • Upgrade Training – Second-in-command to pilot-in-command progression
  • Differences Training – Training on different aircraft models within the same type
  • Recurrent Training – Annual proficiency and currency maintenance
  • Requalification Training – Restoring qualifications after currency lapses
  • §135.293 Competency Checks – Pilot-in-command proficiency evaluations
  • §135.297 Instrument Proficiency Checks – IFR currency evaluations

By utilizing our FAA-certified Level C and Level D full flight simulators and Part 135 qualified instructors, your operation benefits from high-quality training without the overhead of maintaining an internal training department.

OpSpec A031 Contract Training Process

From initial review to approval, we guide you through every step with expertise and care. Here’s the standardization review and audit process.

Step 1: Operator Develops Training Program

The Part 135 operator develops an FAA-approved training program for the make/model aircraft being operated. If you’re building your program for the first time, LOFT can provide sample curricula and documentation to help structure your program.

Step 2: Operator Conducts Standardization Review

The operator conducts a standardization review to determine the training provider’s ability to conduct operator-specific training. LOFT provides a comprehensive onboarding kit that includes:

  • LOFT’s Training Specifications (TSpecs) showing FAA authorization
  • Approved curricula and courseware
  • Instructor and evaluator qualifications
  • Facility and simulator certifications
  • Integration guidance for your training program

This documentation supports your standardization review and gives you (and your POI) confidence in our capabilities.

Step 3: POI Initial Approval & Operator Develops Differences Training

Two parallel processes occur:

  • POI provides initial approval of the training program
  • Operator develops differences training and source of training document (specifying who delivers what training: operator vs. LOFT)

We support this step by providing documentation, answering POI questions, and offering technical guidance to ensure smooth approval.

Step 4: POI Reviews Documentation and Issues OpSpec A031

The POI receives documentation showing the standardization review is complete and issues operations specification A031, which formally authorizes your operation to use LOFT as a contract training provider.

Step 5: Training Begins at LOFT

Training of operator’s crewmembers begins at the authorized training provider. Training is conducted in our Carlsbad, California facility using FAA-certified Level C and Level D full flight simulators, tailored to your approved program.

Step 6: Operator Conducts On-Site Audit

The operator conducts an on-site audit of the actual training and/or checking being accomplished by the training provider. This ensures training matches your approved program and FAA requirements. Many operators combine this audit with a scheduled training event to minimize travel.

Step 7: Operator Submits Written Audit Findings to POI

The operator submits written audit findings to the POI within 60 days after commencement of initial contract training/checking operations. This completes the standardization review cycle and confirms everything is operating as approved.

Why Choose LOFT for Part 135 Training

  • 90+ Operators Trust LOFT: We currently support over 90 Part 135 charter operators and companies nationwide. Our extensive experience means we understand the unique challenges of charter operations and can navigate the approval process efficiently.
  • Flexible, On-Demand Scheduling: Charter operations don’t run on predictable schedules—we get it. Our flexible scheduling model accommodates your operational needs, including the ability to handle short-notice requests like when pilot schedules change.
  • Career Aviators Teaching Aviators: Our instructor team are not just simulator operators, they’re career aviators with diverse backgrounds spanning military aviation, commercial airlines, and charter operations. They understand flying because they’ve lived it, bringing real-world operational experience into every training session.
  • Southern California Coastal Location: Our Carlsbad facility is located just three miles from the Pacific Ocean and across the street from Palomar Airport (KCRQ). Year-round ideal weather, exceptional nearby hotels and restaurants, and proximity to San Diego make training at LOFT a refreshing alternative to traditional training center locations. Your pilots can bring their families and combine training with a Southern California experience.
  • Responsive Communication & Support: Direct access to our team means fast coordination, clear communication, and efficient problem-solving. No phone trees, no impersonal ticketing systems—just experienced aviation professionals who respond quickly and care about your operation’s success.