Part 139 Airport Certification

Airports Planning to Serve Air Carriers

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Contents

• Main
• What is Part 139?
• Air Carriers using Part 139 Airports
• Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF)
• Airports Affected
• Airports Planning to Serve Air Carriers
• General Aviation Airports
• Military/U.S. Government-Operated Airports
• Alaskan Airports
• Heliports
• Helicopter Operations at Part 139 Certificated Airports
• Certification Process
• Classes of Airports
• Contact Information
• Definitions
• Guidance Documents
• FAQs
• Regulation, Final Rule, and Related Documents

The FAA only issues Part 139 Airport Operating Certificates (AOC) to operators of airports that currently serve applicable air carrier operations. The FAA will consider certificate applications from airport operators that provide written documentation that air carrier service will begin on date certain (as specified under § 139.107). The FAA will not issue AOCs to airport operators who are requesting an application for the sole purpose of marketing their airport to air carriers.

To ensure FAA can process an AOC application in a timely manner and anticipated air carrier operations are not disrupted, FAA encourages the airport operator planning to serve air carriers to contact the appropriate FAA Regional Airports Office as soon as possible after obtaining confirmation of air carrier operations.

• For general information on applying for an AOC, go to Newly Certificated Airports.
• For a step-by-step guide on applying for an AOC, go to Small Entity Compliance Guide (PDF).

Assistance Available for AOC Applicants

FAA regional offices will provide assistance to airport operators applying for Part 139 Airport Operating Certificates. They can offer guidance and support and make available advisory circulars, informational brochures, newsletters, and safety placards. Airport operators can access this support by telephone, e-mail, conventional mail, or visits to regional websites. Regional offices also will assist airport operators in applying for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds that may be used to comply with the requirement of Part 139.