Business Aviation
Elevate Jet Gains FAA Certification for Large Aircraft Operations
Elevate Jet receives FAA Part 135 certification to operate large private jets, expanding capabilities in the US private aviation market.
Elevate Jet’s Certification for Large Aircraft Operations: Expanding Capabilities in the Private Aviation Sector
Elevate Jet, a boutique aircraft management firm and subsidiary of Elevate Aviation Group, has been granted a Large Aircraft operating certificate by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This milestone enables the company to operate Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ), Boeing Business Jets (BBJ), and Embraer Lineage 1000 under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 regulations. The certification marks a significant expansion of Elevate Jet’s operational scope and aligns with broader trends in the private aviation sector, where demand for large, long-range, and fuel-efficient aircraft continues to rise.
As the sister company to Private Jet Services Group (PJS), known for its VIP charter operations in entertainment, politics, and sports, Elevate Jet’s new capabilities will enhance the group’s integrated service offerings. The development also follows the company’s inclusion in the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program (SMSVP), placing it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators in the U.S. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the certification, its implications, and the context in which it was achieved.
Elevate Aviation Group: Corporate Structure and Historical Context
Founded in 1995 by Greg Raiff, Elevate Aviation Group began as a student travel company before evolving into a full-service aviation platform. The group’s transformation was catalyzed by the success of Private Jet Services Group (PJS), which emerged in 2003 to serve high-profile charter clients. In 2022, the company rebranded as Elevate Aviation Group, consolidating its subsidiaries into a vertically integrated enterprise that includes Elevate Jet, PJS, and Elevate MRO.
Each subsidiary plays a distinct role within the group. Elevate Jet focuses on aircraft management, acquisitions, and sales; PJS specializes in on-demand and programmatic charters; and Elevate MRO, developed through the acquisition of Keystone Aviation, provides maintenance and repair services. This structure allows for operational synergies, such as PJS utilizing Elevate Jet’s managed fleet for client charters, and ensures end-to-end service capabilities for clients.
Elevate Aviation Group’s financial and legal stability was underscored in 2023 when it secured a $29 million arbitration award against iAero Airways. This legal victory highlighted the group’s resilience and strategic clarity as it continued to expand its operational footprint and service offerings.
Elevate Jet’s Evolution
Elevate Jet has grown from a boutique aircraft management company into a certified operator of large aircraft. Based in Bedford, Massachusetts, the company has approximately 25 employees and reported annual revenues of $6.8 million. Its fleet has included a range of mid-size to long-range jets, such as the Bombardier Global Express, Falcon 7X, and Phenom 100. In early 2025, the company added a Challenger 650 to its fleet, further enhancing its capabilities.
Prior to receiving the large aircraft certificate, Elevate Jet operated under standard Part 135 certification, which limited the scope of aircraft and operations it could manage. The transition to large aircraft operations required rigorous FAA scrutiny and compliance with additional DOT regulations, particularly for aircraft with 60 or more passenger seats or equivalent payload capacity.
The certification process concluded with the issuance of FAA Order 2025-6-7 in June 2025, officially granting Elevate Jet the authority to operate large aircraft under Part 135. This milestone not only expands the company’s service offerings but also positions it to meet growing market demand for ultra-long-range and high-capacity private aviation solutions.
“Large aircraft are in increasing demand in the U.S. charter space. For decades, we’ve curated trips for presidential campaigns and entertainment clients who will benefit from these placements.”, Reid Oslin, VP Strategic Accounts, Elevate Jet
Certification Details and Regulatory Framework
The Large Aircraft operating certificate falls under FAA Part 135, which governs non-scheduled commercial air charter operations. Elevate Jet’s certification allows it to operate aircraft originally designed for more than 60 passengers or equivalent payload, such as the Airbus Corporate Jet and Boeing Business Jet. These aircraft are capable of transcontinental and intercontinental flights, offering enhanced range, cabin space, and comfort.
To obtain the certificate, Elevate Jet underwent a comprehensive multi-phase evaluation by the FAA. This included verification of U.S. citizenship, documentation of operational control, compliance with maintenance and safety standards, and successful completion of proving flights. The company also demonstrated its ability to manage the complexities of large aircraft operations, including crew training, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance.
In addition to FAA requirements, the certification also involved DOT oversight due to the size and capacity of the aircraft involved. Elevate Jet’s adherence to these stringent standards reflects its commitment to operational excellence and safety, further evidenced by its SMSVP participation, which places it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators in the country.
Safety and Maintenance Infrastructure
Elevate Jet’s acceptance into the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program in January 2025 highlights its proactive approach to safety. The program evaluates operators across four pillars: Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, and Safety Promotion. Elevate Jet’s compliance with these standards demonstrates its readiness to manage the increased responsibilities associated with large aircraft operations.
Supporting its operational capabilities is Elevate MRO, which provides maintenance services from facilities in Denver and Salt Lake City. These facilities offer 24/7 AOG support, pre-purchase inspections, and Starlink internet installations, ensuring that Elevate Jet’s fleet remains mission-ready and technologically advanced. The integrated maintenance infrastructure is a key enabler of the company’s expanded operational scope.
Additionally, Elevate Jet’s pilot training programs exceed FAA minimums, with over 250 hours of type-specific instruction provided for large aircraft models. This investment in human capital ensures that flight crews are well-prepared to handle the complexities of long-range and high-capacity operations, further enhancing safety and reliability.
Market Context and Strategic Implications
The timing of Elevate Jet’s certification aligns with broader industry trends in private aviation. According to recent surveys, 93% of U.S. family offices plan to upgrade their aircraft within the next five years, citing operational cost reduction and newer, more fuel-efficient models as primary drivers. Large-cabin aircraft like the ACJ and BBJ are particularly appealing due to their spacious interiors and long-range capabilities.
Environmental considerations also play a significant role in shaping demand. Clients are increasingly prioritizing aircraft that can operate on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and models like the ACJ are compatible with up to 50% SAF blends. Elevate Aviation Group has responded to this trend by partnering with carbon offset providers such as Terrapass and committing to SAF adoption across its fleet.
From a competitive standpoint, Elevate Jet’s new certification enhances its value proposition within the Elevate Aviation Group ecosystem. PJS can now offer large aircraft charters directly through Elevate Jet, reducing reliance on third-party operators and improving service continuity. The certification also opens new revenue streams through structured leasing and demonstration flights, diversifying the company’s business model.
Fleet Modernization and Client Services
In parallel with the certification, Elevate Jet has undertaken a strategic fleet modernization initiative. This includes the retirement of older models, such as the Gulfstream G200, and the introduction of newer aircraft like the Challenger 650 and Global 7500. These changes reflect the company’s commitment to aligning its fleet with client expectations for performance, comfort, and sustainability.
Elevate Jet’s management services extend beyond aircraft operation to include financial reporting, maintenance coordination, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive approach appeals to corporate clients and high-net-worth individuals seeking turnkey aviation solutions. The company’s reputation for white-glove service and operational transparency further differentiates it in a competitive market.
Looking ahead, Elevate Jet is well-positioned to capitalize on continued growth in the private aviation sector. Its integrated service model, operational excellence, and strategic foresight provide a strong foundation for future expansion, both domestically and internationally.
Conclusion
Elevate Jet’s achievement of a Large Aircraft operating certificate marks a pivotal moment in its evolution and underscores its readiness to meet the demands of a changing private aviation landscape. By expanding its operational capabilities to include large-cabin, long-range aircraft, the company enhances its service offerings and strengthens its position within the Elevate Aviation Group.
This development also reflects broader industry dynamics, including rising demand for premium aircraft, increasing regulatory scrutiny, and growing emphasis on sustainability. As Elevate Jet continues to innovate and expand, it stands as a compelling example of how strategic investment in infrastructure, safety, and client service can drive long-term success in the aviation sector.
FAQ
Question: What does the Large Aircraft operating certificate allow Elevate Jet to do?
Answer: It allows Elevate Jet to operate aircraft originally designed for 60 or more passengers, such as Airbus Corporate Jets and Boeing Business Jets, under FAA Part 135 regulations.
Question: How does this certification impact Private Jet Services Group?
Answer: PJS can now offer large aircraft charters directly through Elevate Jet, enhancing service offerings and reducing reliance on third-party operators.
Question: What safety standards does Elevate Jet follow?
Answer: Elevate Jet is part of the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program, placing it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators for safety compliance.
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Photo Credit: Elevate