Certification process and some ideas
The FAA has the entire Part 135 certification process posted on their website. If you forget this link, go to the Atlanta FSDO site.
Here is the link:
http://www.faa.gov/fsdo/atl/cer_index.htm
"The complexity of the process depends primarily on the complexity of your proposed operation, and ranges from a simple single pilot operation using a single engine airplane or helicopter under VFR to a complex charter operation employing many pilots and operating numerous turbine powered aircraft. Scheduled
Commuter operations or those involving aircraft of more than nineteen passenger seats are considered beyond the scope of this guide.
The FAA classifies operators into 4 classes, depending on this
complexity. These classes are:
1. Single Pilot Operator. An operator using only one pilot. This
is typically an owner-pilot operation using a single engine
airplane or helicopter under VFR. It could also include a single
pilot operation using a light twin under IFR with an approved
autopilot in place of a second pilot.
2. Single Pilot-in-Command Operator. An operator that uses only a
single crew for an aircraft requiring two pilots. Only one pilot
may be pilot in command. Any other pilots, up to a maximum of
three, must be only second-in-command.
3. Basic Operator. A Basic Operator is one that has a fairly
simple operation without multiple bases of operation or other
complicating factors and employs five pilots or less, and
operates five aircraft or less.
4. Standard Operator. Any operator that employs more than five
pilots or conducts operations of a complex nature involving more
than one aircraft base or pilot domicile. "
Here's a few thoughts/ ideas to ponder:
1) Research any upcoming US Forest Service summer fire patrol contracts by region. This may be done through the internet. A typical aircraft might be a 182 or a Commander 500B- something with high wings. During fire season you'll fly your butt off and never be home. This part 135 operation typically falls under the above classification #1- Single Pilot Operator.
2) Feeder cargo opportunities- you may need to know management real well at a local hub operation (UPS, Airborne mainly). Get to know these folks. It can be a hard sell if you don't have some history in the field.
Also, research the federal reserve bank (Atlanta?) site on the internet. There are contacts for securing cancelled bank check contracts. Another idea- check with local film processors to see who processes film at various cities. Then contact those film processors to see what it takes to haul their film. Finally, some large corporations need internal mail transfer to/from various operations. Find out who does it now, or who may need the service and make them an offer.
Good luck. Do you have alot of money or know how to write a good business plan?
Time to learn.