Industry Input Leads FAA to Expand Organization Designation Authorization Program

Nov. 12, 2025

The FAA recently published a revised Order 8100.15C Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) Procedures, expanding the ODA functions to include some airmen certification activities.

The ODA program allows authorized companies to issue certificates and conduct certain inspections on behalf of the FAA, with agency oversight. Traditionally, the program has been applied to various airworthiness functions, including certain type certification; production certification; supplemental type certification; and major repair, alteration and airworthiness activities.

The program previously allowed for delegation of a short list of flight standards functions, including issuance of a rotorcraft external-load operator certificate in compliance with 14 CFR Part 133.

“The revised order expands flight standards-related activities to include certain airmen certification functions, applicable to Parts 121, 135, 141, 142, 145 and 147,” said Doug Carr, NBAA’s senior vice president of safety, security, sustainability and international operations. “This is especially helpful as the FAA faces resource constraints, and some Part 135 operators wait extended periods of time to have an FAA inspector conduct a pilot check.”

NBAA is a longtime advocate of expanding the industry’s role in routine operational functions that maintain a certificate holder’s ability to continue operating, promoting this expansion with the FAA and Congress, as a cost-effective means for regulators to delegate some authority but maintain appropriate oversight.

The association recently urged the FAA to expand the program to include more administrative functions, such as approval of Part 135 minimum equipment lists or even the initial steps of a Part 135 certification process.

“NBAA commends the FAA for expanding this important program, which, when used appropriately, can be a highly effective cost-saving measure for the FAA and create significant efficiencies for the business aviation industry,” Carr said. “We encourage the FAA to continue expanding this program to include low-risk activities, conducted by trained, authorized entities under the FAA’s oversight.”