Best Jets International wins FAA Part 121 certification for Embraer 170 charters

Best Jets International has received FAA Part 121 Supplemental Air Carrier Certification, expanding its Embraer 170 charter operations for larger group travel. The move gives brokers, corporate planners and other customers more capacity options across the U.S. and positions the company to grow its Midwest and Florida-based fleet.

Why it matters: - The new FAA Part 121 certification expands Best Jets International’s ability to serve larger charter groups with the Embraer 170. - The certification broadens options for corporate travel, sports teams, tours and special events that need one aircraft for a larger group. - Best Jets can now compete more directly in the space between private jets and commercial airline service.

What happened: - Best Jets International said Aug. 27, 2026, that it received FAA Part 121 Supplemental Air Carrier Certification. - The certification expands the company’s Embraer 170 charter operations. - The company said the Embraer 170 fleet will eventually be based in the Midwest and Florida. - Best Jets now offers four Embraer 170 aircraft for charter service. - The fleet includes two 30-passenger executive configuration aircraft and two 60-passenger aircraft.

The details: - Best Jets has operated its 30-passenger executive Embraer 170 aircraft for years under Part 135. - The new Part 121 certification opens larger group charter opportunities for the 60-passenger aircraft. - Best Jets will continue operating its existing Part 135 business alongside the new Part 121 Supplemental certification. - The company’s broader private jet fleet includes midsize, super-midsize and long-range aircraft. - The Embraer 170 offers a stand-up cabin, generous baggage capacity and seating designed for larger groups. - Best Jets says the aircraft can reduce the need for multiple business aircraft or commercial airline arrangements. - Best Jets says the aircraft are suited for corporate shuttle programs, manufacturing travel, retail distribution network support, entertainment tours, sports teams, luxury tours and special event transportation. - The company offers on-demand charter flights and dedicated shuttle programs. - Best Jets says direct access to destinations throughout the United States can reduce travel time and avoid commercial airline constraints.

Between the lines: - The certification suggests Best Jets is positioning the Embraer 170 as a specialty product for group travel rather than a standard private jet offering. - The company is leaning into a niche that appeals to organizations that want commercial-scale capacity with private aviation flexibility. - Troy Salwei, vice president of commercial operations, said the certification expands Best Jets’ capabilities and helps the company serve customers needing larger-capacity charter solutions.

What's next: - Best Jets is directing charter brokers and customers to inquire about Embraer 170 availability, corporate shuttle programs and large-group charter solutions at sales@bestjetsintl.com. - The company expects the expanded certification to support continued growth in its charter operations. - Best Jets says the certification is another step in its broader push to provide innovative aviation solutions nationwide.

The bottom line: - Best Jets International now has FAA approval to use its Embraer 170 fleet for bigger charter missions, giving the company a stronger foothold in high-capacity private aviation.