When you need to charter a private aircraft, your first instinct might be to contact an operator directly. But behind many seamless private flights is a professional who makes it all happen: the air charter broker. In today’s dynamic business aviation landscape, air charter brokers play a critical role in matching clients with the right aircraft, managing logistics, and ensuring compliance, safety, and value.

In this guide, we explain what an air charter broker is, how they operate, what to expect as a customer, and the best practices that ensure a premium flying experience.

What Is an Air Charter Broker?

An air charter broker is an intermediary who arranges on-demand private flights for clients using licensed charter operators. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), an air charter broker is “a person or entity that, as an indirect air carrier, foreign indirect air carrier, or a bona fide agent, arranges single-entity charter air transportation using a direct air carrier” (14 CFR § 295.5(b)).

Rather than operating aircraft themselves, charter brokers connect clients with FAA-licensed Part 135 air carriers that operate jets, turboprops, helicopters, or other business aircraft for hire.

Three Types of Charter Broker Roles

Per the NBAA Best Practices for Air Charter Brokering, brokers may act in three legally distinct capacities:

1. Agent of the Customer – Represents and advocates for the client, arranging transportation in the client’s name.
2. Agent of the Direct Air Carrier – Serves as a marketing and sales representative for one or more operators.
3. Indirect Air Carrier (IAC) – Contracts directly with both the operator and the client, reselling the flight as a principal.

Regardless of the model, Part 295 requires clear, advance disclosure of the broker’s role to the customer (NBAA, 2024).

Why Use an Air Charter Broker?

Working with a professional charter broker offers many advantages:

1. Aircraft Matching: Brokers help identify the ideal aircraft for your mission based on passenger count, range, amenities, and budget.
2. Operator Vetting: Reputable brokers perform due diligence on direct air carriers, checking safety records, insurance coverage, certifications, and FAA compliance.
3. Logistics Management: They coordinate flight details, special requests, ground transport, catering, and on-the-day communications.
4. Cost Efficiency: Brokers compare multiple quotes to negotiate the best deal without compromising safety or comfort.

What to Look for in a Charter Broker

Choosing the right broker can mean the difference between a flawless experience and unexpected issues. Here's what to look for:

✅ Regulatory Knowledge: The broker should understand DOT Part 295, IRS excise tax obligations, FAA operational control rules, and TSA security procedures.

✅ Transparent Disclosures: You should always know the operator, aircraft tail number, insurance limits, and whether the broker is acting on your behalf or the operator's.

✅ Due Diligence: Top brokers screen operators using third-party safety audits (e.g., Wyvern, ARG/US), verify FAA Part 135 certificates, and check for enforcement actions.

✅ Clear Contracts: Look for detailed agreements outlining terms such as pricing, insurance, cancellation policies, and any additional fees.

✅ Professionalism and Service: Brokers should be available during the flight for support and follow-up, providing concierge-level coordination before, during, and after the journey.

Red Flags to Avoid

❌ Phrases like “our fleet” – If a broker uses language implying aircraft ownership without operating under Part 135, that’s misleading and may violate DOT rules.

❌ Unusually low prices – Cut-rate offers may come from illegal operators. A legitimate broker will verify that all operators are fully certified and insured.

❌ Lack of transparency – If the broker doesn’t disclose who operates the aircraft or avoids answering questions about insurance or safety, consider walking away.

The Bottom Line

An experienced, transparent, and DOT-compliant charter broker is your best ally when navigating the complexities of private aviation. By ensuring operational integrity, safety compliance, and client-focused service, reputable brokers elevate your travel experience while minimizing risk.

At Jetvisors, we don’t just book flights—we serve as your trusted aviation advisor, ensuring every charter is tailored, vetted, and seamless from start to finish.

Ready to experience the next level in private air travel? Contact Jetvisors today to speak with a certified air charter expert.

References

National Business Aviation Association. (2024, July). Best Practices for Air Charter Brokering. Retrieved from https://nbaa.org/aircraft-operations/part-135/air-charter-brokers/

U.S. Department of Transportation. (n.d.). 14 CFR Part 295 – Air Charter Brokers. Retrieved from https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-295