The issue of illegal jet charters is one of the most difficult for regulators to address, and this gives rise to a number of operators and brokers who conduct or arrange illegal flights.
In basic terms, the FAA has two sets of rules that pertain to private jet charter. FAA Part 91 is a set of basic rules that govern any general aviation flight, and almost every pilot flying today must adhere to these rules – from those in command of the most advanced jets to individuals flying a single prop Cessna.
Licensed jet charters however must fly under Part 135, which features more strict maintenance programs and recordkeeping, safety checks, advanced pilot training and other requirements. These “rules’ are actually federal laws, which specify in great detail the requirements for equipment in the airplane and those that operate it – the pilots, attendants and maintenance personnel.
As you can probably guess, flying under proper FAA regulations also has costs. Thus the best way for a broker to slash costs is to simply ignore the regulations and fly illegal charters. What does this mean for jet charter consumers?
- Unlicensed carriers are not checked by regulators, so there are no minimum standards for pilot experience. Those boarding a Part 91 charter flight have no assurances of their pilot’s expertise.
- Maintenance records are also not checked, nor are flight logs, so the recurrent maintenance of the aircraft is in question.
- These operators are flying illegally, so it’s impossible for them to obtain liability insurance to provide coverage to their clients in the event of an emergency.
Many individual aircraft owners are unknowing accomplices to these unscrupulous brokers and operators, since most are not experts in FAA regulations. Because there are only civil penalties and not criminal ones for flying illegally, the FAA also has limited leverage to stop these flights. There is a push to pass new legislation to combat illegal flying, but it hasn’t become a reality yet.
This means that illegal brokers can compete as “equals” with highly regulated and licensed charters – and the flying public often doesn’t know the difference. How can you protect yourself from illegal and possibly unsafe charter flights?
- Always use a jet charter agent who you know and trust. Brokers that pop up overnight and are willing to sacrifice your safety for a quick dollar aren’t interested in building a long-term business, or establishing a positive business reputation.
- Ask for a Wyvern or ARGUS report for your flight. These reports provide operational history, maintenance audits and pilot experience. Observe if your plane looks clean and well-kept.
- Request a copy of the aircraft operator’s Part 135 certification, and insurance certificate from your charter agent. If they cannot provide these documents, there’s a good chance the jet charter is illegal.
Without taking these steps, it is often impossible to know if you are on a legally authorized charter. Then the primary question to ask yourself is, “Am I comfortable doing business with a company that isn’t upfront and honest with me from the very start?”
The operators we choose to include in our Approved Vendor Program adhere to the most stringent standards in the industry, and employ only the most experienced pilots. You can count on your Stratos Jet Charters agent to consistently provide the more appropriate aircraft at the best available price, every time.
If you’d like a quote on your next travel itinerary or more info on jet charter, please give us a quick call at 888 594-7141, 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
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