According to FAR Part 135, what is the role of operational control?

According to FAR Part 135, operational control is the authority to initiate, conduct, and terminate a flight. This authority is typically delegated to a designated individual or department within a commercial air carrier organization. Operational control encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including flight planning, weather monitoring, aircraft dispatch, crew scheduling, and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations. The person exercising operational control is responsible for making decisions regarding the safety and legality of each flight, considering factors such as weather conditions, aircraft performance, and crew qualifications. They have the authority to delay, divert, or cancel a flight if they determine that it cannot be conducted safely. The pilot in command shares responsibility for the safe operation of the flight but must adhere to the operational control decisions made by the designated authority.