IFLYFORFREE: youre pretty close to the truth!
Quote:"In addition to the Cat 1 status for Nigeria, Arik would need to apply to the FAA for a FAA129 certificate, this would allow them to fly into the US."
Prior to "9-11" This certification was optional for some airlines. however after "9-11"
The FAA "ATOSS" Air Carrier transportation and Security Surveillance. Team has mandated to all foreign carriers engaged in Air transportation operations across its border to have either a FAA 121 certificate or 129 certificate. Compliance is mandatory. In the case of Nigerian Operators and JAR. because prior approvals (prior to JAR OPS 69. These countries have been "Granfathered" and allowed to enter European airspace provided they meet the the Mandated Compliance of ISO 9002 and IATA audits. This is the "Loophole" that allow all non JAR foriegn carriers to enter land and takeoff from "ANY EUROPEAN AIROPRT"
It is interesting to note that Saudia has an FAA 121 Certicicate same as united and Delta.
Category1 certification approval is only the 1step in the process in obtaining the required certification to cross the US border for the purpose of landing& Takeoff as An AirCarrier.
I hope that at least we can research our facts before we continue with unfactual infomation.
Cheers
GB