Legal Support for Department of Defense Contractors and Military Aircraft Operations
Military aircraft contractors play a crucial role in maintaining the air defense readiness of the United States and its allies. By providing essential support aircraft, contractors are integral to the DOD’s mission and the U.S.’s overall defense strategy. Balancing the requirements of public aircraft operations (PAO) and civil aircraft operations (CAO) presents complex legal and regulatory challenges that often create conflicting or duplicative demands.
Jetlaw brings extensive experience working directly with the DOD, Department of Transportation (DOT), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to advocate for policies that foster a cohesive and efficient approach to aircraft operations. Our goal is to simplify compliance and minimize disruptions. We help contractors align their operations with regulatory expectations while supporting the broader goals of their government contracts.
How Jetlaw Supports Military and Government Contractors
Jetlaw provides comprehensive legal support for military and government contractors, helping them navigate complex requirements and protect their interests:
- Federal Contracting and Procurement – Advising on the federal contracting process, from initial bid submissions to contract performance and compliance
- FAA Compliance and Advocacy – Resolving FAA-related issues, advocating for favorable policies, and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Public Aircraft Operating Requirements – Helping clients navigate the complexities of public aircraft operations, including compliance challenges for operators that are required to operate certain fights as civil aircraft operations.
- Incident, Accident, and Public Relations Support – Assisting with crisis management, providing counsel on managing accidents, incidents, and public relations challenges with federal agencies and the news media.
- ITAR Compliance – Providing guidance on the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) for contractors engaged in military and government contracts.
- Military Aircraft Acquisitions – Locating, inspecting, and managing the acquisition and integration of domestic and foreign military aircraft.
Government Contracting & Public Aircraft Operations (PAO)
Jetlaw also serves as a trusted partner to a broad range of public aircraft operators, including contractors working with NASA, firefighting services, and law enforcement agencies. Public Aircraft Operations (PAOs) may also be required to meet Civil Aircraft Operations (CAO) requirements, which creates unique compliance challenges. Many operators face challenges in determining which of their flights qualify as PAO and which must adhere to 14 C.F.R. Part 91 and Part 135. We help clients identify these distinctions and navigate the challenges of transitioning between PAO and CAO requirements.
We also work to negotiate contract terms that enhance operational flexibility and reduce compliance risk.
Legal Support for Public Aircraft Operations Across Sectors
Jetlaw assists public aircraft operators across various industries, helping them manage complex operational and regulatory issues:
- Firefighting Operations – Supporting firefighting contractors to meet regulatory requirements while ensuring operational effectiveness.
- Air Ambulance Services – Assisting with the complexities of government-sponsored air ambulance services.
- Law Enforcement Aviation – Representing police and highway patrol agencies in PAO-related compliance and operational matters.
- Rescue and Emergency Operations – Advising contractors engaged in rescue missions to ensure they meet all regulatory obligations for public aircraft operations.
Jetlaw represents a wide variety of Public Aircraft Operators, including NASA contractors, military contractors, firefighting and rescue operations, and other quasi-governmental flight operations.
Most operators are not permitted to perform all of their operations as Public Aircraft Operators (“PAO”). Jetlaw assists operators in determining which operations qualify as PAO flights and which flights must be performed under 14 C.F.R. Part 91 or Part 135. Additionally, Jetlaw supports PAOs with federal and state contracting, helping them negotiate favorable aircraft operating requirements within their contracts to streamline PAO operations.
Partner with Jetlaw for Aviation Legal Guidance
Jetlaw is dedicated to supporting aviation contractors and public aircraft operators with strategic legal counsel that helps ensure compliance, efficiency, and operator success. With decades of experience in the aviation sector, we are prepared to guide you through the challenges of military contracting and public aircraft operations.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist your organization.