Fractional aircraft provider Flexjet has submitted its declaration of compliance to the FAA for the new mandatory rule under Part 5 Safety Management System (SMS), meeting the regulatory requirements well before the May 2027 deadline. The decision to submit the compliance declaration follows Flexjet’s participation in the FAA's SMS Voluntary Program since 2021.

In addition to early compliance with the requirements, Flexjet has earned a series of safety certifications, including a platinum safety rating from Argus, an IS-BAO Stage 2 registration, and 25 FAA Diamond Awards for excellence in aviation maintenance training. The company said its comprehensive safety management approach ensures that safety remains a top priority for both clients and personnel.

“It takes an organization-wide culture of safety to be able to proactively build out a safety management system like this so far ahead of the FAA’s deadline, and Flexjet is a prime example for the industry to follow,” said company chief safety officer Charles Starkowsky.

Flexjet said it has been proactive in enhancing its SMS to not only meet FAA standards but also incorporate best practices from global regulators. Its SMS program includes four critical components: safety policy, risk management, assurance, and promotion, which together form a framework ensuring the safety of its aircraft, pilots, and crews, the company noted.