The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has received an overwhelming response to its proposal to regulate public air charter operations more stringently. The proposal has garnered close to 60,000 comments, surpassing the feedback received for other significant rulemakings, such as drone regulations and airline seat size standards.
The FAA's proposal primarily targets large public air charter operators, like JSX, urging them to comply with the same standards as commercial airlines. JSX, which operates scheduled flights on 30-seat aircraft from private airport terminals, has expressed concerns that the proposed changes could jeopardize its business model. Currently, JSX serves 24 cities either year-round or seasonally. The airline offers amenities like free WiFi, spacious seating, and lounge areas, positioning itself as a competitor to major carriers for premium customers.
In its August announcement, the FAA highlighted the growing frequency and complexity of public charter flights. The agency believes that without proper regulation, this growth could pose safety risks. Under the current regulations, public charter flights are limited to 30 passengers, and their pilots aren't held to the same stringent training requirements as commercial airline pilots. Additionally, these pilots aren't bound by the mandatory retirement age of 65. While public charter passengers bypass standard TSA airport screenings, the operations remain under TSA's purview.
The debate surrounding public charters has divided the airline industry. While JetBlue, United, and the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) support JSX and similar operators, others like American Airlines, Southwest, and major airline industry unions oppose them. ASTA, in its submission, emphasized the growing number of clients opting for public charter flights, viewing them as a viable and often more convenient alternative to business class travel on commercial carriers.
Southwest, in its comment, urged the FAA to ensure consistent safety standards across the board, regardless of the aircraft's size. They emphasized the need for swift action to guarantee passenger safety. Conversely, JSX defended its safety protocols, asserting that major airlines and unions are primarily motivated by stifling competition. JSX highlighted the extensive flight experience of its pilots and pointed out that the FAA's current safety challenges don't involve public charter operators.
