Whether you’re comparing charter operators or it’s your first time chartering a private jet, it’s invaluable to know what questions to ask to gain a better understanding of their safety practices and general operations. Below the charter experts at Schubach Aviation have contributed 10 questions you should ask before you book your next private jet charter and why.
1. How long has the operator been exercising its Part 135 certificate and approvals?
How long an operator has been in business can offer valuable insight into their experience and reliability, but specifically asking how long they have been Part 135-certified will indicate when they began FAA-approved private jet charter operations. This certification is required to conduct non-scheduled (or on-demand) flights and ensures compliance with FAA safety standards, including pilot qualifications, operations, maintenance and more.
2. What is the operator’s safety record?
A flawless safety record is the gold standard in private aviation. If an operator has experienced any incidents or accidents, what steps have they taken to mitigate risk in the future?
3. What third-party safety certifications has the operator earned?
Independent third-party safety ratings are an excellent indicator of an operator’s commitment to enhanced safety and a useful tool to compare charter operators. Going beyond the minimum FAA compliance, leading programs the likes of Wyvern, ARGUS, and IS-BAO closely examine and vet an operator’s safety and risk management practices. Typically, operators will progress through increasingly more rigorous stages (or audits), those advanced ratings carry more weight when it comes to decision making.
4. Do you operate a floating or home-based fleet?
A “floating fleet” is an operator’s aircraft that are not located in any one location, but rather dynamically placed at high-traffic airports.
Unlike a “home-based” fleet, which is stationed at one airport for charter. Often floating fleets can offer more competitive pricing on popular routes, but there are greater risks of delays, no guarantee of your preferred aircraft type and familiar flight crew. Home-based fleets allow for more reliability, flexibility, and personalized service. Aircraft return “home” after each trip, where maintenance and routine upkeep is performed by an on-site team. If choosing an operator with a floating fleet, it’s important to pay close attention to maintenance frequency since it’s typically managed on a schedule and during low-demand periods.
5. What is the average age/hours of the aircraft on the charter certificate?
A well-maintained older jet isn’t any less safe, as a trusted operator will appropriately manage its care and maintenance as it ages. Some modern aircraft are equipped with technology that enhances safety, plus, cabin features and appointments that make the journey more comfortable.
6. What experience does the flight crew have?
Inquiring about a pilot/crew’s total flight hours and, more specifically, how many flight hours in a particular jet type can reveal a pilot’s skill level, familiarity with an aircraft, and ultimately their level of expertise. Plus, if there are any special operations involved (for example, a Pacific crossing) does the crew have the experience to safely navigate any potential challenges?
7. How often is the crew trained?
The FAA strictly regulates all aspects of pilot training, but operators can enhance the safety of their operations with voluntary advanced training programs and policies beyond the minimum FAA guidelines. It’s important to confirm that the second-in-command is “type rated” in the specific aircraft that you will be flying on. Meaning, do they have the specialized training and certification to pilot a specific model aircraft should the need arise. Ask about simulator training — which virtually replicates a flight environment — which can be a useful tool, but is not a replacement for real-world flying experience.
8. What is your booking process and cancellation fees?
Get familiar with an operator’s booking process and client service support, to ensure it’s a good fit for your needs. It’s important to carefully review policies, including cancellation fees, as they can vary widely from operator to operator.
9. What standard stock is on board?
Standard stock refers to the cabin comforts, including beverages, snacks, and supplies, provided standard for each flight. This will help determine what special requests to make to personalize your flight to your own preferences.
10. What fees can I expect?
In order to compare operators, it’s important to be familiar with what is included in the charter price and what could be billed in addition. Fees can also be incurred based on variables including fees related to international destinations, deicing in cold weather locales, and travel related to high-profile special events, including Formula 1 races and the Super Bowl.
