Safety is of paramount importance when chartering aircraft in private aviation. The Federal Aviation Association (FAA) Part 135 regulations outline the operational and safety requirements for air charter operators. To ensure safety, it is crucial to work with operators who have undergone thorough safety audits and meet specific safety ratings. Argus (ARG/US) and Wyvern are two prominent safety rating systems in the industry. Let’s delve into the importance of these safety ratings and what each level entails.
ARGUS SAFETY RATINGS ARE BROKEN DOWN BELOW
Gold Rating
The operator’s commercial certificate, pilots, and aircraft are assessed and compared to others in similar situations to achieve the Gold Rating. The evaluation process involves analyzing historical data and performance metrics to determine if the operator meets the criteria for the Gold Rating. While not as comprehensive as the higher ratings, the Gold Rating indicates that the operator has demonstrated a certain level of competency and adherence to safety standards.
Gold Plus Rating
The Gold Plus Rating is an extension of the Gold Rating and reflects an additional commitment to safety.
In addition to meeting the requirements for the Gold Rating, operators with the Gold Plus Rating have either completed an on-site safety audit or maintained an IS-BAO registration.
The on-site safety audit thoroughly examines the operator’s facilities, maintenance practices, record-keeping procedures, and adherence to safety protocols. The IS-BAO registration is an internationally recognized standard that verifies an operator’s compliance with safety management systems and best practices.
Platinum Rating
The Platinum Rating represents the highest level of safety ratings offered by Argus. To achieve the Platinum Rating, operators must meet the requirements for the Gold Rating and successfully pass the rigorous Argus Platinum on-site safety audit. The on-site safety audit comprehensively examines the operator’s operations, including safety management systems, maintenance practices, crew training, operational procedures, and emergency response plans.
Operators with the Platinum Rating are expected to have an exceptional Safety Management System in place, indicating a proactive approach to safety, risk management, and continuous improvement.
WYVERN SAFETY RATINGS
Registered Operator
The Registered Operator program is an entry-level offering from Wyvern. Operators participating in this program provide their records to Wyvern, which are made available for clients to review.
While the Registered Operator status indicates a willingness to disclose information, it does not signify that the operator has undergone a comprehensive audit by Wyvern.
Clients can use the provided records to assess an operator’s compliance with specific safety standards and determine if it aligns with their requirements.
Wingman
The Wingman rating is a higher level that signifies a strong commitment to safety practices and industry best standards. Operators at the Wingman level have undergone an extensive audit against Wyvern’s audit standard.
The audit evaluates various aspects, including maintenance, crew training, operations, safety management systems, emergency procedures, and adherence to industry regulations. The Wingman rating demonstrates that the operator has implemented the latest and best safety practices and is committed to ongoing compliance and improvement.
In summary, the Argus and Wyvern safety ratings provide an additional layer of assurance when chartering aircraft. They indicate an operator’s commitment to safety, with higher ratings reflecting more comprehensive evaluations, on-site safety audits, and stringent compliance with safety management systems. Choosing an operator with a certified safety rating ensures that you are working with professionals who prioritize safety and meet industry standards. At Atmosphere Aviation, we prioritize your safety and work exclusively with operators who meet your preferred safety requirements, including holding Argus Gold, Argus Platinum, or other relevant safety ratings.