Lloyd is correct as usual. It is entirely possible for a single pilot/airplane operation to get a 135 certificate. Sounds like another good research paper doesn't Lloyd?! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif Dig into Part 135 Brian, then watch the movie again, you'll find the movie a lot more amusing!
As a 135 operator, you will need to have a qualified Chief Pilot. Company specific, and FAA approved, operations and maintenance procedures manuals. An approved initial and recurrent training program. Hire an outside organization to provide random drug and alcohol screening. Hire an outside organization to provide recurrent training and conduct the require proficiency check flights every 6 months. You will need a contract with an FAA approved mechanic or repair station to provide maintenance and aircraft inspections, and you will have to draft an approved maintenance procedures manual. This part is easier said than done, because the mechanic or repair station must be qualified to do 135 work, and they must be available to you at all times, if the mechanic moves, or opts out of the contract, you must cease operations until a new mechanic is approved. You will need an MEL for your aircraft, which will be bare bones if you are far from parts suppliers, no parts= "no fly". If you plan to carry passengers single pilot in anything but severe clear you will need an approved, certified, and functional three axis autopilot. You will also need insurance which can be very costly if you are carrying passengers or valuable cargo. There's more, but these are the basics.
It's hard to start up a small 135 operation and make enough money in the first few years to keep it going. You will need enough capital to carry you through several years without any profit. If there is a profit to be made, there will most likely be established competition that you will have to take business from and that is not easy. If you can find a poorly managed operation and take over, assuming the FAA approves you, than you might make a go of it. It can be done, just look at many of the operators in Alaska. If you plan to operate in a part of the world under JAA rules you will need to convert your certificates and ratings and meet their standards which are frequently higher than FAA.
