Subang is rapidly becoming a hub for unlicensed charter flights that operate without the authorities’ knowledge. This puts the safety of passengers at risk and undermines the revenue of licensed operators. In Asia, Malaysia ranks second in the number of private jet flights operating without a valid air operator certificate (AOC), followed by China, according to a survey conducted by the Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA).
It’s important to note that any mishap involving these flights is not covered by insurance. Moreover, these illicit operations threaten the nation’s reputation for aviation safety.
Aircraft owners and lessors are seeking more clarity on agreements due to enhanced scrutiny from the Civil Air Authority regarding illicit charter flights that use “sham dry leases” to hide the true commercial nature of a flight.
As the holidays approach, more travelers opt for private aircraft due to their enhanced hygiene protocols and lower exposure to unknowns. These passengers mustn’t put themselves or their belongings at risk by using illegal charter services.
There has been an increase in the number of “gray charters,” which refers to private planes being flown by pilots who do not have Part 135 certification. Some customers who need to be made aware of this may purchase these charters thinking they are getting a good deal, just like they would while comparing prices of commercial airlines, without realizing that these charters are unlawful.
The Department of Transportation requires part 135 charter operators to maintain specific insurance coverage. If an operator is found to have unlawfully chartered an aircraft, their insurance coverage may not be enough to cover commercial operations. This means that passengers’ assets, including corporate and estate holdings, could be at risk in the event of an accident
