Check Airmen/Basic operator?

[340drvr]

OK here's the scenario: 135 Basic Operator, limited to 5 pilots by ops specs. Approved company check airman is a D.E., used on a contract basis, not a full time company employee (and not an FAA guy either), stays qualified per 135.295, 135.297, 135.299, but does not fly any charter trips. Does said check airman have to take up one of the 5 allowed slots, even though he'll never fly any line trips? Or is he outside of the "5," in the same way as maybe a Flight Safety check-ride instructor? Looking for some insight on this one, thanks.

 

[climbhappy]

i think it is the discretion of the gm listed on the op specs. if he has a flight check he can be. doesn't matter full or part time. faa doesn't tell you how to run your business, just gives operational framework.

 

[brokeflyer]

You only need to be current......you dont even have to have any of your planes leave the ground.