Part 91 Jet Captain

When your jet’s prepped and waiting, but your pilot’s suddenly out, what’s your move?

If you manage flight ops, you know the drill. Passengers are waiting, schedules are tight, and suddenly you’re scrambling. Maybe it’s a minor hiccup. Maybe it’s a full-blown crisis. Either way, “winging it” isn’t exactly an option.

Here’s the thing, though: there’s a way to handle this without the last-minute panic or settling for whoever’s available. Whether you’re running a corporate flight department, flying privately, or coordinating business travel, hiring a Part 91 jet captain is more than just filling a seat. It’s also about making a call that affects safety, efficiency, and a whole lot of peace of mind.

In this post, we’ll walk through how to find the right captain and why partnering with a solid crew provider can save you more than just time.

What is a Part 91 Operation?

Part 91 jet operations are governed by FAA regulations focused on non-commercial use. These operations typically include private and corporate flights, owner-operated jets, or personal travel.

What makes Part 91 flight captain roles different from, say, airline or charter pilots is the scope. Unlike commercial regulations under Parts 135 or 121, Part 91 allows greater operational flexibility. The regulations give you flexibility.

However, that flexibility also means the aircraft operator holds responsibility for ensuring all Part 91 pilot requirements are met. This includes proper licensure, current training, and proficiency in the make and model of aircraft being operated.

You’re not outsourcing that liability. You’re owning it. And that’s the tradeoff. With more freedom and control comes a greater need to ensure your Part 91 jet captain is sharp, current, and experienced.

Who Needs a Part 91 Jet Captain?

Many types of operators rely on Part 91 flight captains, including:

Corporate flight departments managing internal business travel
Private jet owners requiring backup coverage
Charter companies with internal repositioning needs
Management companies with variable pilot schedules

In each of these cases, it is vital to have a pilot who understands the nuances of non-commercial operations, maintains current certifications, and can operate autonomously when needed.

Here’s the thing. Even if you don’t need a full-time hire, you still need someone professional. Someone you can count on when the engines are running and decisions have to be made fast.

That’s where a contract Part 91 jet pilot comes in, offering a highly professional solution without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire.

Key Responsibilities of a Part 91 Jet Captain

Hiring a pilot isn’t just about logging hours. It’s about what happens in those hours and what happens before and after them.

Pre-Flight Planning and Safety

A Part 91 jet captain conducts detailed pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, weight and balance calculations, aircraft performance assessments, Route planning, NOTAMs, and fuel loads. They also confirm aircraft airworthiness, ensure proper documentation, and verify that safety equipment is onboard.

And more importantly, that’s how they make your schedule work. Delays from poor planning? Not worth it.

In-Flight Operations and Decision-Making

During flight, the captain maintains full command of the aircraft, navigating regulatory airspace, responding to changing weather conditions, and communicating with ATC as needed.

You want someone who doesn’t flinch under pressure. Someone who’s flown enough to know when to speak up and when to just fly the plane.

Post-Flight Procedures and Reporting

Once the flight concludes, the captain is responsible for debriefing, securing the aircraft, completing logs, and communicating with the maintenance team if needed. A professional Part 91 flight captain ensures the flight cycle is complete from takeoff to post-landing support.

Benefits of Hiring a Contract Part 91 Jet Captain

You have several options, but hiring a contract Part 91 jet pilot is often the most practical and efficient choice as:

Cost-Effective Staffing Solution

If your operation doesn’t require a full-time pilot year-round, a contract arrangement provides access to skilled professionals on an as-needed basis. Contract pilots give you quality on demand without carrying the cost when your jet’s sitting idle.

Flexibility for Short- or Long-Term Needs

Whether you need a temporary Part 91 pilot for a single trip or ongoing support during a leave of absence, contract pilots can be engaged on flexible terms. A temporary Part 91 pilot gives you agility. You scale your crew to your needs, not the other way around.

FAA Compliance and Qualified Professionals

Just because Part 91 gives you more freedom doesn’t mean you can cut corners. Part 91 pilot requirements still demand a high level of currency, experience, and responsibility.

Working with experienced professionals takes the guesswork out of compliance and gives you confidence every step of the way.

Why Use a Pilot Staffing Agency?

While Part 91 offers operational freedom, FAA compliance remains critical. All pilots provided through Professional Crew Services meet the necessary Part 91 pilot requirements, including medical certification, currency, and experience in type.

Sourcing and evaluating pilots independently requires time and introduces significant uncertainty. A professional pilot staffing agency streamlines the process.

Vetted Talent and Background Checks

Professional Crew Services performs in-depth background checks, license verification, reference validation, and recency checks before presenting a candidate. This due diligence ensures that your aircraft is operated by only the most qualified individuals.

Streamlined Hiring Process

Agencies manage scheduling, communication, and administrative details so you can focus on flight planning.

Contract pilot services aren’t just about access. They’re about speed and precision.

Access to a National Network of Pilots

Agencies like Professional Crew Services have rosters across the country, with pilots ready for specific aircraft, specific ops, and specific clients like you. Whether you operate regionally or nationwide, a qualified staffing provider gives you access to a broad pool of professionals.

Need someone with Gulfstream time? Or typed on a Citation XLS? Need a Gulfstream-certified corporate Part 91 pilot or someone typed in a Phenom 300? That match is already in the database.

Finding the Right Contract Pilot Services

Selecting the right captain involves more than just reviewing flight hours.

Key Qualities to Look for in a Jet Captain

Technical skill, professionalism, and familiarity with your aircraft type are essential. But you should also look for communication skills, adaptability, and a proven ability to operate independently under corporate or private ownership.

How to Evaluate Pilot Credentials

A well-qualified pilot should hold an ATP certificate, have recent PIC time in the specific aircraft type, and maintain current training records. Ask for simulator check records and insurance documentation, if applicable.

It’s okay to be picky. It’s your aircraft. Your risk.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Are you currently in my aircraft type?
Do you have recent experience operating under Part 91?
Are you available for short-notice trips?
Do you carry your own insurance?
Can you provide references or flight logs?

These questions help you determine if the candidate aligns with your team’s dynamics and expectations for the role.

How Professional Crew Services Can Help

ProCrewService.com exists for one reason: to make your life easier when it comes to pilots.

We offer a streamlined solution backed by deep industry experience. Our pilots are career professionals who’ve flown for top companies, trained on the aircraft, and know how to handle every phase of flight like it’s second nature.

You get access to a wide talent pool. You avoid the hiring headaches. You stay compliant and confident without scrambling.

Call us at (602) 653-9277 or visit ProCrewService.com to line up your next Part 91 jet captain. Even if you’re just exploring options, it’s worth a quick conversation.

Because when the trip’s on the line, the right pilot isn’t optional. It’s everything.