Glossary of Aviation Terms | What is a Charter Broker?

Charter Broker | Paramount Business Jets

A charter broker is a specialist agent who acts as an agent for the leasing of an aircraft. The charter broker is paid an agreed commission for finding aircraft available for charter/lease and acting as a middleman in negotiations between a charterer and an aircraft operator.

A charter broker provides individuals or organizations with charter solutions to their travel needs, represents the interests of a client, and deals directly with operators and other trip service providers. Charter brokers tackle issues such as competitive rates, contingency planning, organizing all the logistics of a trip, and how to get the customer to their ultimate destination. Due to the fact that brokers do not own their own aircraft, it can be strongly argued that a broker is more inclined to look for the right aircraft for a specific trip because they are not limited by aircraft types.

The term "charter broker" can sometimes be confused with the term "aircraft broker". A charter broker acts as an agent in the sale of charter time on aircraft, rather than someone who sells aircraft and/or looks for buyers for aircraft. Occasionally, an individual or organization will carry out both roles, but each role is specialized and should not be confused with one another.

In addition, charter brokers can handle the details of trip planning when clients are not able to. The broker will also handle most aspects of a trip, such as obtaining copies of FAA flight certificates, documentation about the aircraft to be used, liability insurance verification, and making backup aircraft available. Furthermore, the broker will normally review the operator's flight manifests for FBOs, mileage en route, anticipated departure and arrival times, and any plans that include overnight arrangements for the aircraft and crew.

Complementing jet charter flights every step of the way, charter brokers normally employ charter specialists who are trained in personalized concierge services and provide clients with five-star services catered to their exact specifications. In addition, brokers often utilize a network of approved partners and qualified operators that meet both FAA and industry safety requirements, as well as the needs of the most discerning travelers.