Understanding ARGUS and Wyvern Safety Ratings | FlyAXS
A complete guide to ARGUS and Wyvern safety ratings for Part 135 operators. Understand rating levels, audit requirements, customer expectations, and how to achieve and maintain third-party safety certification.
Why Safety Ratings Matter for Business
Major corporations, insurance companies, and charter brokers often require operators to hold specific ARGUS or Wyvern rating levels before booking flights. Without a recognized rating, you may be excluded from entire customer segments including Fortune 500 corporate travel departments.
ARGUS Rating Levels
ARGUS International offers three charter operator ratings: ARGUS Registered (basic verification of credentials and certificates), ARGUS Silver (desktop audit of operational safety data and records), and ARGUS Gold (comprehensive on-site audit requiring proven safety track record, strongest market recognition in the US).
Wyvern Rating Levels
Wyvern offers two operator ratings: Wyvern Registered (credential verification) and Wyvern Wingman (comprehensive on-site audit equivalent to ARGUS Gold in rigor). Wyvern is particularly recognized by international corporate clients and European operators.
Audit Preparation
Begin audit preparation at least 90 days in advance. Conduct a thorough internal pre-audit against the rating checklist. Ensure all training records, maintenance logs, SMS documentation, crew credentials, and operational manuals are current and accessible. Gaps discovered during a live audit can delay or deny your rating.