This is something we are regularly asked. Some may evaluate options based on the age and cost of the option, but there are many aspects to consider when evaluating what makes a good operator. Outside meeting the legal requirements to transport passengers for hire and reward, of course.
Below are some key aspects that make an operator stand out from the crowd:
1. Safety Aspects and Third Party Affiliations
Both the crew and aircraft need to hold and maintain relevant certifications and inspections – this includes regular maintenance checks and simulator training, upholding the aircraft to all present airworthiness directives. Inspections from governing bodies, such as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), should conduct regular inspections on how and where the aircraft is maintained, crew training and Crew Resource Training (CRM) Operations and management structure. Airlines however can apply for additional safety accreditation from third party organisations such as Wyvern or Argus.
2. Commercial Aspects (it’s not just about the cost...)
Be considerate to the commercials and not just the initial price! Given the choice of options available to you, the prices provided can vary significantly (please see our article on example pricing), so when comparing options consider especially the following factors:
A. What can be the extras and associated costs? Fuel Surcharges, Catering, Wi-Fi & Communication Costs, Overnight Fees, Airport Fees and Possible Additional Flight Time and Demurrage Charges.
B. Cancellation terms Consider the position and fees in the event you may need to cancel a trip or your program altogether. Ah-Hoc Charter Flights will generally have harsher terms than Flying Programs, based on the proviso that you would eventually use the hours purchased.
C. Your position
In the event that there is an aircraft substitution, an unscheduled maintenance issue or other operational reason.
3. Operational Aspects - Reliability and Punctuality
Understandably this may be difficult to consider if you only occasionally need to use Private Jet Charter, but the temptation of a low offer can be associated with airlines maximising schedules with multiple flights on the day – this can pose issues if you wish to amend your schedule, or a preceding charter flight is delayed. It's best to check when the aircraft is scheduled to position to you, with the consideration that anything within 45 minutes before departure is a tight turnaround. 90 minutes is more preferable, allowing some flexibility on the day in the event of slot or ATC delays, but beware that this may be subject to additional costs if not pre-agreed.
Aircraft Reliability – ‘catching the snags’:
Having a dependable and reliable aircraft is a paramount issue. Both very new and older models at the beginning and end of their life cycles will develop ‘snagging’ issues which may result in lengthy inspections and delays. These situations are obviously never welcomed, but like any machine it can happen, so it's important to know what the operator position is in the event of an unscheduled mechanical issue. Clear and open communication should be made with an understanding of the actions being taken, and whether they will recover the schedule with a substitute aircraft if required, and if so, at whose cost?
4. Aircraft Aspects - Cabin & Crew Services
Generally speaking, since many passengers are not pilots or engineers, the quality and appearance of a cabin is the keyhole in which passengers make judgement on how good the airline is overall, aside the aforesaid points. Take note how the aircraft is prepared and cleaned post flight, the quality of the seats and leather, carpet condition and the approach taken from the crew towards the aircraft and ground staff; whether the crew will greet passengers at the terminal or only on the aircraft itself can give a quick and important indication on the overall operation.
5. Little Details make Big Differences
Who doesn’t like feeling appreciated? So knowing a little about why you're flying either for business, leisure or because of a logistical challenge, and being acknowledged on the flight, shows a small but key attention to detail. Generally, if the small touches are accounted for, the overall operation should be of a high quality. Knowing about an anniversary, birthday or special greeting gets the trip off on the right foot. Has the crew and operator refined the catering order to your specific needs? Is anyone nervous of flying and may need additional attention? Are the crew aligned with your particulars? And so on...
With Jet Members, our experienced Account Managers look at these details to ensure the right option is provided to our members.
We understand that price will be an important factor for any private charter but
ultimately in instances where the difference in charter prices may be negligible,
our impartial approach and knowledge in the differences between the service
provided by different airlines can be significant -– better to elect the right option
than be disappointed with an expensive, below par experience.
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