Ep.17: An FAA perspective on Aircraft Management with Joaquin Ochoa
In this episode, we sit down with Joaquin R. Ochoa — retired FAA Inspector and aviation consultant. With Joaquin, we explore what it takes to manage aircraft under FAR Parts 91 and 125, from personnel requirements to maintenance programs. We also discuss FAA oversight, compliance, and some of the key issues Joaquin encountered throughout his long career in aviation. Towards the end, we look at the FAA’s IASA process and what it means for foreign operators (CAT 1 & CAT 2).
This episode is a must-watch for anyone involved in aircraft management or operating within, or transitioning into, FAA jurisdiction — from owners and operators to aircraft brokers, consultants, CAMOs, and maintenance professionals.
About Joaquin R. Ochoa
Joaquin Ochoa’s aviation career began in 1978 in general aviation, where he worked as a mechanic holding an Inspection Authorization (IA), performing annual inspections. In 1980, he was hired as an aircraft bench mechanic with Batch Air. By the mid-1980s, he expanded his experience in the airline sector, joining Midway Airlines as an A&P mechanic. He was subsequently promoted to maintenance planning and later moved into Quality Control. He continued building his career in the air carrier environment, holding various roles across three different airlines, before transitioning to an aircraft leasing company. Joaquin joined the FAA in 1995 and became a Principal Maintenance Inspector in 1998, overseeing two Part 121 air carriers and 10 associated repair stations. In 2006, he was promoted to Frontline Manager at the Miami International Field Office, where he served as the Airworthiness subject matter expert for 17 years. During his FAA career, he participated in multiple IASA program assessments and contributed to the Brazil BASA MIP/MAG — one of his final assignments before retirement. Since January 2024, Joaquin has established his own aviation consulting company. His work focuses on mentoring and supporting applicants for both domestic and foreign repair stations, as well as assisting Part 129 (foreign air carrier) operators — with or without N-registered aircraft — in obtaining operational approvals. He has held an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate since 1982.
Topics discussed:
- Introduction and how Joaquin started in aviation
- FAA structure and differences with other registries (SAS, ARC, FSDO, CMO, departments)
- Airworthiness management for private operations and Part 125 requirements
- FAA approvals, oversight, and structure for Part 125 operators
- Compliance challenges (domestic and foreign) and disclosures
- FAA IASA process and implications for foreign operators (CAT 1 & CAT 2)
- Joaquin’s consulting work and advice for young professionals
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DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.
