Northern Jet has achieved registration with the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), adding a globally recognised operational standard to the Orlando, Florida-headquartered charter and management company's established safety programme and supporting its continued growth in international private aviation.

"As Northern Jet continues to grow, it is important that our operational standards grow with us," says Christopher Bull, CEO of Northern Jet. "IS-BAO registration strengthens the foundation behind our expanding international capabilities and reinforces the level of consistency and care we expect across every part of our operation."

The practical significance of IS-BAO for a Part 135 operator with transatlantic ambitions is that EASA has consistently accepted IS-BAO registration as a means of demonstrating compliance with the safety management system element of its third-country operator (TCO) authorisation requirement, which has been mandatory for all non-EU commercial operators wishing to fly to, from or within the EU since November 2016.

Developed by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), IS-BAO is a business aviation standard designed to promote consistent, disciplined operating practices and effective safety management. Northern Jet received its initial Stage 1 registration following an extensive preparation process and a three-day audit evaluating key areas of the company's flight operations, policies, procedures and safety management system.

"IS-BAO registration reflects the work our team has put into strengthening Northern Jet's systems, processes, safety practices and culture," says Tim Reeve, director of safety at Northern Jet. "The audit provided a detailed review of how we operate and how safety is incorporated into our day-to-day decision-making. Achieving this registration validates that work against a respected global business aviation standard and strengthens our operational foundation as the company continues to grow."

The new registration expands Northern Jet's portfolio of independent safety credentials. The company also holds ARGUS Platinum status and Wyvern Wingman PRO certification, with its SMS assessed at Level 4 under Wyvern's evaluation framework. Northern Jet's safety management system also complies with FAA Part 5 requirements.

Together, these third-party evaluations provide clients, aircraft owners, corporate flight departments and industry partners with additional independent validation of Northern Jet's operating practices and safety systems.

IS-BAO was developed specifically for business aviation and is based on internationally accepted standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations. The programme places an emphasis on structured safety management, operational discipline, risk identification, continuous improvement and organisational accountability.

For Northern Jet, the registration also carries added value as the company expands its international capabilities. A common global operating framework can support coordination with aviation partners and stakeholders across international markets, including Europe, while providing another recognised benchmark for the company's operating standards.