EASA Flight Time Limitations Explained for Business Jet Operators

Flight Time Limitations (FTL) under EASA Part-ORO are one of the most misunderstood areas of aviation regulation for business jet operators. This guide breaks down the key requirements in plain language.

What is Flight Duty Period (FDP)?

The Flight Duty Period begins at the crew reporting time and ends when the aircraft is parked after the last flight of the day. It includes pre-flight briefing, taxi, flight time, and post-flight duties.

Under EASA, the maximum FDP depends on the number of sectors and the time of reporting. A single-sector day starting at 08:00 allows up to 13 hours of FDP.

Block Time vs Flight Time

A common mistake is confusing block time with flight time. Block time runs from chocks-off to chocks-on, including taxi. FTL calculations use block time for cumulative limits, not pure airborne time.

Rest Requirements

Minimum rest between duties is 12 hours, extended to allow at least 8 hours of sleep opportunity. Operators must account for travel time to accommodation when calculating actual rest.

Cumulative Limits

• 28 days: 100 hours block time
• Calendar year: 900 hours block time
• Any 12 consecutive months: 1,000 hours

How Prometheus One Handles FTL

Prometheus One automatically calculates FDP and cumulative limits for each crew member, flagging violations before they occur. The system supports EASA Part-ORO, FAA Part 135, and custom operator rulesets.