AirExplore Secures U.S. DOT Approval to Operate in U.S. Airspace
AirExplore, Slovakia’s premier airline and a member of the Avia Solutions Group, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving approval from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) for a conditional Foreign Air Carrier Permit (FACP). This approval allows the airline to commence operations in U.S. airspace, providing scheduled and charter air transportation for both passengers and cargo to, from, and within U.S. territory using wet-leased aircraft.
Securing the FACP is a critical achievement for AirExplore as it prepares to expand its reach and operations in the U.S. The approval, granted under Part 129 of the Federal Aviation Regulations, is a necessary step for foreign carriers wishing to operate in U.S. airspace. The FACP enables the airline to operate under its own callsign, using its own aircraft, as long as it complies with FAA regulations. However, there are conditions that AirExplore must meet to achieve full operational capabilities.
Martin Stulajter, CEO of AirExplore, explained that to operate in the U.S., airlines must adhere to the FAA’s standards, specifically Part 129, which regulates foreign carriers. While the FACP grants commercial operational rights, the FAA also requires a separate process to issue operations specifications (OpSpecs). This process can take time and is subject to a series of regulatory and diplomatic efforts, as the FAA must review the air carrier’s national oversight authority. This oversight is part of the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA), which assesses the safety standards of the carrier’s home country.
The FACP is part of a broader effort by AirExplore to become a major player in the global aviation market, especially as it seeks to expand its fleet and operations beyond Europe. Although AirExplore currently holds the FACP, Slovakia has not yet achieved IASA category 1 status, which is required for the airline to directly apply for Part 129 operations specifications from the FAA. As Stulajter mentioned, the process to achieve category 1 status can be lengthy, as it involves diplomatic efforts and the FAA allocating resources for assessments. However, AirExplore remains optimistic that once Slovakia attains category 1 status, the process to obtain full FAA approval will be streamlined.
In the meantime, AirExplore is lobbying within Slovakia to expedite the IASA audit process. Stulajter emphasized the importance of this certification, noting that it is a crucial step in fully realizing the airline’s international expansion plans. AirExplore is confident that once Slovakia secures IASA category 1 status, it will meet all necessary requirements for Part 129 approval and be able to operate fully in the U.S. market.
Additionally, AirExplore’s recent safety achievements have bolstered its case for future growth. The airline has earned IATA’s IOSA certification and operates under EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) standards, which are recognized globally. This certification demonstrates AirExplore’s commitment to safety and operational excellence, further positioning the airline to meet the rigorous requirements for U.S. operations.
As AirExplore looks toward the future, it aims to expand its aircraft fleet and increase its global presence. The U.S. market, in particular, offers significant opportunities for growth, and the airline is well-positioned to capitalize on this expansion once its regulatory hurdles are cleared. With its FACP approval in hand and continued lobbying for IASA category 1 status, AirExplore is poised for success in the competitive U.S. aviation landscape.
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