Who has operational control during an operation conducted under FAR 135?

Operational control refers to the authority and responsibility for a flight operation, including ensuring the flight complies with regulatory requirements and safety conditions. Under FAR 135, which governs operating rules for on-demand air carriers, the entity that has operational control is the certificate holder—specifically, Flexjet LLC in this context.

Flexjet LLC, as the operator, is responsible for managing all aspects of the flight operation, including dispatch, flight planning, maintenance, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. This includes oversight of the aircraft, crews, and safety protocols. While the pilot in command plays a critical role during the flight itself, making real-time decisions regarding the aircraft's operation and safety, operational control fundamentally rests with the carrier, which holds the certificate and must ensure that operations are conducted within the legal framework established by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Therefore, the correct answer highlights the responsibility and authority of the organization running the operations, as it encompasses both the regulatory obligations and the operational decisions that impact flight safety and compliance.