On August 14, 2006, a Flight Standards Handbook Bulletin for Airworthiness (HBAW) was issued August 14 providing a means for Part 135 “nine-or-less” operators to issue their own Special Flight (ferry) permits. “Nine or less operators” are those who maintain and inspect their airplanes in accordance with FAR 135.411(a)(1). Prior to the issuance of HBAW 06-03, these operators were not allowed to self-issue ferry permits. Rather, these operators had to obtain ferry permits from the local FSDO office during normal business hours. For operators who operated flights at night, this was a problem.
HBAW 06-03 now allows an “organizational designee” of the operator (someone authorized by the FAA who is a part of the operator’s organization, but not the operator’s director of maintenance) to issue a ferry permit. Self-issued ferry permits that are transmitted to remote locations via facsimile without inspection of the aircraft by the designee will also be allowed. Operators will need to establish a program approved by the FAA allowing issuance of ferry permits by the designee and to amend the operator’s operations manual accordingly.
HBAW 06-03 will eventually be incorporated into Order 8300.10, Airworthiness Inspector’s Handbook. Until that time, for a more detailed explanation of the new procedure and its requirements, “nine or less” Part 135 operators should thoroughly review HBAW 06-03 and/or discuss it with their principal maintenance inspectors.
