Who holds Operational Control for this company?

• A. The PIC
• B. The CEO
• C. A T1 Controller and the PIC
• D. Ground crew

Answer: (C)

Operational Control is the authority to direct and authorize flight operations for a certificate holder, ensuring all safety and regulatory requirements are met. In Part 135 operations, this control is vested in the operator and is often exercised by a designated person who coordinates flight planning, scheduling, routing, weather, and compliance—commonly a T1 Controller. The Pilot in Command remains responsible for the safety and actual conduct of the flight, making the final call on how the aircraft is operated. When both are in place, the T1 Controller (or designated controller) and the PIC together hold Operational Control. The CEO or ground crew do not hold this control, and the PIC alone does not encompass the full operational control arrangement.