Choosing the right air charter operator - Through a broker. 

As someone who has worked in the aviation industry for a lifetime, I find it crucial to share insights on selecting the right operator for your charter needs - through a broker. This process, though seemingly straightforward, involves many nuances that can significantly impact your experience. 

My motivations for penning this article are rooted in a desire to illuminate the intricacies of this service and foster a better understanding among chartered and fellow brokers. 

 The role of a broker in charter operations

Firstly, it's important to understand the fundamental dynamics of the broker-client relationship. A broker will never initiate a booking without clear instructions on which aircraft to book. This practice shifts the decision-making responsibility, and therefore the risk, back to the client. 

While it may seem self-serving from a broker's perspective, the reality is that these professionals primarily serve as agents for the charterer. That arrangement ensures that the accountability for the choice of aircraft doesn’t fall solely on the broker's shoulders.

However, this raises a question: Why employ the services of a broker at all? The answer lies in their invaluable expertise and established relationships with the air charter operators. Brokers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience gained through countless transactions that individual charterers simply cannot match. This expertise is crucial in navigating the complex landscape of private charter.

Choosing the right operator through a broker

Choosing a charter operator is based on asking the right questions and demanding clear, concise answers. To guide you through this process, here are essential inquiries to make through your broker.

1. Experience with the operator. Find out if the broker or their firm has prior working relationships with the operator in question. Familiarity with specific protocols, including owner-release formalities, operational procedures, and payment policies, is indispensable.
   
   
2. Operational Expertise. Determine if the provider has experience with your intended route or destination, particularly for locations in Asia and Africa, which may present some logistical challenges such as permits, facilities, and crew accommodations.
   
   
3. Contingency plans. Clarify the operator's preparedness for unforeseen events, such as technical issues or an Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situation. Understanding the provider’s strategy for such scenarios, including the provision of a replacement aircraft and associated costs, is crucial. It is also important to know what sort of cancellations and penalties are applicable if the aircraft is not serviceable in between flights.
   
   
4. Change and delay charges. When you choose a charter operator, look for flexibility. Some operators are highly accommodating, while others with tight schedules may not be as adaptable. Be aware that some providers may charge an extra cost for providing flexibility, as it can impact their availability. Red flags to watch out for include charges exceeding the hourly rate for a change in location or exorbitant fees for an additional overnight stay.
   
   
5. Diplomatic аlights. For flights requiring adherence to specific diplomatic protocols, verify the operator's experience and competency in managing such requirements, as they may vary significantly from country to country.
   
   
6. Additional costs such as Wifi & Catering. Wi-Fi, in particular, carries a significant markup, and surprisingly, slow ground-based Wi-Fi can be more expensive than KA satellite-based Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi charges can sometimes be as much as the charter itself. Ask the private broker if the operator can limit Wi-Fi usage and allow you to prepay for it before the flight. Plus, a good provider will never skimp on catering. Check how much catering is included. If they are charging you for simple wines and steaks, they are definitely skimping, and that is a red flag!

7. Insurance coverage. Inquire about the operator's insurance coverage, including the extent of third-party liability and, if applicable, war risk insurance. This aspect is particularly critical for charters to regions with heightened risk profiles.
   
   
8. Aircraft authorization. Lastly, ensure that the aircraft itself is authorized for commercial gain. This includes checking compliance with insurance, maintenance, and crew duty requirements, which differ based on the aircraft's certification. In the aviation industry, these factors are crucial to ensure safety and regulatory adherence.

Conclusion

Selecting the right charter operator is as much your responsibility as it is the broker's. Ask the right questions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight. And keep in mind that a good broker and reliable operators are not looking to exploit you with changes or cancellations. 

‍

At Tribe, we work exclusively with vetted operators and act as their agent. This means it is both our responsibility and theirs to provide you with the best solutions for your needs. We don't just present you with a list of quotes to choose from. We provide all the necessary information in advance, enabling you to make the right choice.

‍