Even during this COVID-19 pandemic, essential air travel is possible. Certainly, commercial airlines face many restrictions. However, private jet charter brokers are still able to book flights for those who need to travel.

But how do you find the right broker? There are many excellent charter brokers to choose from. Unfortunately, there are also some exploiting the current situation. Here are three tips to help you choose a private charter-on-demand jet broker with a reputation for safety, transparency, and reliability.

Safety

The first step, even before looking at aircraft types or pricing, is to ensure your jet charter broker is safe and reliable. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) recommends using a broker that is part of an audit program.

For example, Stratos Jet Charters uses third-party charter auditors such as ARGUS and Wyvern to ensure the safety standards are being met, and the aircraft operators themselves are financially-sound.  A reliable broker will always be able to tell you which company and aircraft are listed on the FAA charter certificate.

Air safety goes beyond an accreditation certificate hanging on an office wall. Ideally, a safety-culture should influence everything a jet charter broker does. Your broker should be able to tell you about an airline’s crew training and experience, and the crew’s duty limits.

Aircraft-specific questions are also important. Here are a few questions to consider: 

  • Does the aircraft have safety equipment such as a defibrillator or inflatable rafts aboard?
  • Is the aircraft capable of longer flights if diverted?
  • How frequently does the cabin air filter and refresh during the flight?

 Stratos is proud to be one of the few ARGUS certified and third-party audited private jet charter brokers. Image courtesy of ARGUS.

 

Insurance

Like aircraft safety equipment, insurance is there to protect you during travel. Reputable jet charter brokers will tell you who issues their insurance, and what is covered. For example, Stratos Jet Charters requires that turboprop charters carry a minimum of $25 million in liability insurance and $50 million for jet charters. Many operators exceed these minimums, to protect everyone.

Customer Service

The best jet charter brokers are focused on service, even during a pandemic. They strive for transparency by posting online customer reviews, pricing guides, aircraft information, and FAQ pages.  The superior broker firms will also offer added-value services such as arranging ground transportation, accommodations and inflight amenities for their valued travelers.

At Stratos Jet Charters, we believe we meet or exceed all the criteria the NBAA recommends for jet charter brokers. And we are always available to answer your questions.

 

When you are ready to charter a luxury private jet, call Stratos Jets—888-593-9066.