1) Scheduled operations include passenger operations in which the departure location and time and the arrival location are offered in advance by the operator. Scheduled operations can also carry cargo. However, an all-cargo operation is defined as nonscheduled.

NOTE: Scheduled operations do not include public charter operations under 14 CFR part 380.

2) Nonscheduled operations include:

a) Passenger carrying operations in which the departure time and the departure and arrival locations are specifically negotiated with the customer or the customer’s representative

b) All-cargo operations

c) Scheduled passenger operations in aircraft (other than turbojet-powered airplanes) that have 9 or fewer passenger seats and 7,500-pound payload or less that operate with a frequency of less than 5 round trips a week on at least one route between two or more points according to a published flight schedule


This information can be found in your Principle Operator Inspector (POI) guidebook the The Flight Standards Information Manual 8900.10 Search it on Faa.gov then click on Air Operators and read it. This is the guideline book they use to certify you and it will answer any question you have.

You would be better off being unscheduled and transitioning to a scheduled operation if you wish after being certified. Don't forget once you are scheduled operator that flight is leaving regardless of how many people are in the seats, which can be costly until you are sure there is a solid market for a certain route.

I think you are going the right route by being a basic operator because depending on how long you've been 121 you should be able to qualify as DO and chief pilot.

Just so you are aware depending on your FSDO this process can take you anywhere between 6month to 18months to complete.


Best of luck to you.