In a proposed rule change, DOT would classify "commuter air carriers" differently than air taxi carriers. With the new classification, the registration process would be streamlined, eliminating duplicative and repetitive filings.

A commuter air carrier would operate aircraft with fewer than 60 seats on scheduled routes, but it would not need to file for public convenience certificates. An air taxi would fly aircraft of similar size and it would still need to obtain a certificate.

A DOT survey of the operators of small passenger aircraft found that 35 hold commuter authority for DOT and 60 of the 145 carriers currently holding certificates operate only small aircraft. A commuter air carrier can perform air taxi-like functions without seeking a separate air taxi certificate. However, it would be limited to flying no more than four weekly roundtrips.

"Our assessment of their rule making indicates that its economic impact is minimal because the new rule will not impose any new costs on the affected commuter air carriers," according to the DOT impact statement. The Regional Airline Association is now studying the 11-page proposal. It has not taken a position on the plan.

>>DOT Docket: 19426. Comments are due by Dec. 13.<<