Our Safety Management System (SMS) protocol requires our pilots to hold an FAA Airline Transport Pilot License (highest available) and to receive rigorous training that far exceeds the industry standard. NICHOLAS AIR pilots participate in two annual training courses, receive simulator-based flight training to be type-rated in the aircraft, and must perform two check rides per year with an FAA-approved check airman.
The NICHOLAS AIR Safety Management System (SMS) is a program encompassing system safety and safety management processes. SMS is recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA) as the next step in the evolution of safety in aviation. Similar to other business and operational decision-making systems, SMS is a decision-making tool.
The role of safety is performed by every NICHOLAS AIR team member. Our SMS program continually challenges our organization to examine our operations and all decisions surrounding the operations. It promotes the continuous safety improvement through the use of reports and data collection to assess, analyze, and control risk. The NICHOLAS AIR SMS program reinforces and is an extension of our corporate culture of predictive thinking versus reactive thinking.

IRON WING
The IRON WING Safety Rating is a renowned benchmark for assessing the safety standards of only the most exclusive private air travel providers that have operated for 20+ years accident-free. Reflecting only the best of the best and through rigorous evaluations, the rating ensures aircraft, crew, and the operation far exceeds FAA, ARUGS, WYVERN, and industry safety protocols. Unlike most “safety ratings” IRON WING is by invitation only and not a paid subscription like Argus or Wyvern. This prestigious rating, only available to the most exclusive private air travel providers, focuses on resilience, reliability, and advanced protective measures. Companies with an IRON WING Safety Rating must also be evaluated for financial stability and sustainability, ensuring consumer purchases of Jet Cards are safe. IRON WING is the leader in safety and innovation, reassuring passengers and crew the highest levels of flight operation reliability.
This emblem of excellence highlights commitment to upholding safety as a fundamental priority in aviation advancements.
NICHOLAS AIR Additionally Holds IS-BAO, Argus Platinum and Wyvern Ratings
IS-BAO stands for International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), developed by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), is a globally recognized code of best practices based on ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS). Built by operators for operators, IS-BAO is endorsed by major aviation authorities including the FAA, Transport Canada, and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), further reinforcing its value as a benchmark for business aviation operations.
ARGUS and Wyvern are accepted globally as a detailed third-party due diligence system primarily for smaller charter operators. They paid subscriptions and do not meet the same rigorous standards such as IRON WING or IS-BAO.