Air Operator
Certificate
Introduction
Any operator conducting commercial air transport operations needs an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). A Guernsey AOC operator must have its Principal Place of Business (PPB) in Guernsey). At a minimum, the organisation must establish a Guernsey registered entity and office, from which the accountable manager directs and coordinates operational and financial control.
The AOC process follows the ICAO five-phase process. Click here for a detailed overview of the process.
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Registry Services
Registering your commercial aircraft is a breeze with 2-REG, the Guernsey Aircraft Registry. We offer a fast, efficient, and secure registration process for various aircraft types.
For more information on registry services such as registration, deregistration and change of ownership.
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Airworthiness
Your aircraft needs to be safe to fly. That means getting a Certificate of Airworthiness (CofA). We offer a choice of type acceptance certification including EASA, FAA, UK CAA, TCCA and ANAC. Allowing you access to an ever-growing array of validated MRO / 145 facilities. Our team of 20+ Surveyors are also strategically located worldwide for rapid response when needed.
For more information regarding airworthiness, such as Certificate of Airworthiness, AMP approval and modification validations.
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Flight Operations
Every operator of a Guernsey registered aircraft must comply with the requirements of GAR 91 (General Operating Instructions). In the case of commercial air transport operations, compliance with GAR 121/135 (Commercial Air Transport Operations) is also required and will result in an Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
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Fees
Considering registering a private aircraft in Guernsey? This guide provides an overview of the indicative fees for both aeroplanes and helicopters, helping you make informed choices. Additional charges may apply based on the specific aircraft, airworthiness requirements, and flight crew considerations.
For a detailed fee schedule and fee calculator please click the button below.
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Aeroplane
Helicopter
Registration
£300
£300
Selected Registration Mark
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5,700kg (Under) £525
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5,700kg (Over) £1,250
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3,175kg (Under) £525
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3,175kg (Over) £1,250
Certificate of Airworthiness
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Cost per 500 kg £90*
*Additional hourly expert fee for airworthiness survey applies
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Cost per 500 kg £65*
*Additional hourly expert fee for airworthiness survey applies
AOC Initial
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MTOM > 5700 kg, but < 50000 kg £18375
includes 70 standard hours
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MTOM ≥ 50000 kg £21000
includes 80 standard hours
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MTOM > 5700 kg, but < 50000 kg £18375
includes 70 standard hours
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MTOM ≥ 50000 kg £21000
includes 80 standard hours
Hourly rates
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Hourly fee for expert review £170
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Hourly fee for expert review £170
About Us
Guernsey is a British Crown Dependency with 800 years of constitutional independence and is recognised for its political and economic stability. It is the second-largest of the Channel Islands, located 30 miles from the Normandy coast and 70 miles from the south coast of England.
As a self-governing jurisdiction, Guernsey has a unique and independent taxation system. It does not levy capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. Income tax is charged at a flat rate of 20%.
Air Operator Certificate Process
The certification process for a Guernsey AOC follows the ICAO five-phase process. A Guernsey AOC operator must have its Principal Place of Business (PPB) in Guernsey. The requirements for the PPB are stated in GAC OPS-11.
As a minimum, the organisation must establish a Guernsey registered entity and office, from which the accountable manager directs and coordinates operational and financial control.
PHASE 1:
Pre-Application
This phase involves initial contact between the operator and 2-REG. The operator submits a formal letter of intent and essential documents, allowing 2-REG to assess eligibility and provide guidance on the certification process.
PHASE 2:
Formal Application
The operator submits a detailed application package, including an operations manual, safety management system, and compliance documents. 2-REG reviews the submission to confirm it meets regulatory requirements and issues an acknowledgement of readiness to proceed.
PHASE 3:
Document Evaluation
2-REG conducts a thorough review of the operator’s submitted documentation to ensure compliance with ICAO standards. This phase focuses on verifying the effectiveness of proposed procedures, systems, and organisational structures.
PHASE 4:
Demonstration & Inspection
The operator demonstrates operational readiness through practical evaluations, including test flights and inspections. 2-RG observes these demonstrations to confirm that the operator’s systems function as intended in real-world scenarios.
PHASE 5:
Certification
Upon successful completion of all previous phases, 2-REG issues the Air Operator Certificate (AOC). This certificate authorizes the operator to conduct commercial air transport operations under specified conditions.
Air Operator Certificate Timeline
Aircraft
Registration
1 Business Day
Aircraft Survey Scheduled
5-7 Business Days
1 Business Day
1 Business Day
Issue of AOC
Air Operator Certificate
4-6 Months
Eligibility
All three of the following structures apply cumulatively to every aircraft registration on the Guernsey Aircraft Register.
Eligibility Criteria
For an aircraft to be registered on the Guernsey Registry, the owner or operator must meet the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria is published in chapter 5 of GAC REG-1.
Admission Policy
Due Diligence Requirements
The owner will be subject to due diligence requirements, the extent of which will vary according to the State where the owner is incorporated or resident and that States’ international standing in terms of security and anti-money laundering provisions. The full list of due diligence requirements is published in paragraph 5.4 of GAC REG-1.
Our 3-Step Process Overview
Registration and Airworthiness of an aircraft are a separate process from applying for an AOC. At 2-REG, we understand the importance of efficiency and minimising downtime. Our streamlined service timeline ensures a smooth and efficient aircraft registration.
This guide details the three key phases involved in our aircraft registration and airworthiness process: Application, Reviews & Eligibility and Completion. With dedicated support, we will ensure a seamless transition for your aircraft.
PHASE 1
Preparation and Application
Registry Services
Submit online application
Gather KYC Documentation:
- Bill of Sale (ownership proof)
- Company Certificate (verifies name)
- Director Register Extract (identifies directors)
- Company Overview Statement (describes business purpose)
- Corporate Structure Chart (indicating shareholders and UBO)
- Registered Address Confirmation
Airworthiness
CAM to submit online initial CofA application
- Attach a copy of airworthiness contracts
- Proposed Survey date
Submit AMP for review and approval
PHASE 2
Review and Checks
Registry Services
Registration Eligibility Check
Know Your Customer (KYC) Check
Airworthiness
Aircraft Airworthiness Inspection
- Aircraft Physical Inspection
- Aircraft Records Review
AMP review
PHASE 3
Completion
Registry Services
Issuance of Certificate of Registration
Airworthiness
Issuance of Certificate of Airworthiness
Issuance of Noise Certificate
Issuance of AMP Approval
Benefits
Guernsey as Jurisdiction
Guernsey offers a comprehensive solution for your aircraft needs, providing tax benefits by owning your aircraft through a Guernsey company, along with VAT-Free advantages and Insurance Premium benefits. Guernsey ensures seamless management of aviation assets, including accounting facilities and banking provisions, catering to both permanent importation and flexible arrangements.
Fly with mixed Flight Crew Licence
Time Efficient
At 2-REG, we value your time. Our expert team ensures a smooth registration process, verifying safety, guiding operations, and handling everything efficiently. Your dedicated Account Manager is your one point of contact for a hassle-free experience.
Asset Value & Legal Status
Certainty in Asset Value and Legal Status through ratification of the Cape Town Convention. This ensures that creditors have internationally recognised rights in mobile equipment, enhancing financial security and predictability.
Personalised Registration Marks
At 2-REG, we elevate the standard of commercial aircraft registration. Tailor your aircraft’s tail number to embody your brand identity, transforming it into a unique symbol of distinction. Embrace the chance to leave a lasting impression in the skies with a personalized touch that reflects your business ethos.
Global Coverage
Our extensive global network guarantees exceptional care for your aircraft anywhere you fly. Access a network of over 250 qualified MRO providers, ensure regulatory compliance with 75+ CAMOs, and enjoy peace of mind with our 20+ strategically located surveyors.
