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Know who does what

Private Jet Charter Broker vs. Aircraft Operator

Who arranges your charter. Who operates your flight.

Understand the responsibilities and the details to confirm before booking.
Compare the roles
JetNine is an indirect air carrier — Part 295 broker. All flights operated by FAA Part 135 certified carriers.Read broker disclosure →

Two roles. Different responsibilities.

You can book through a broker or directly with an operator. When a broker arranges your charter, confirm which carrier will operate the flight.

01
The charter broker
Arranges and coordinates.

A broker helps source aircraft, compare proposals and coordinate the booking with the operating carrier. JetNine acts as a broker.

How to choose a charter company
02
The aircraft operator
Operates the flight.

The operating carrier has operational control and is responsible for the flight’s operational requirements.

What to verify about the operator

Who handles each part of your trip?

Your questionCharter brokerAircraft operator
Aircraft optionsSources and presents optionsConfirms operational suitability
Booking coordinationCoordinates proposal and arrangementsConfirms the operating commitment
Crew and aircraftRequests and communicates detailsResponsible for operational requirements
Flight decisionsCommunicates updatesHolds operational control
Ask which role each company is acting in for your specific booking.

Get the important details in writing.

01
Identify the carrier.

Request its legal name, certificate information and proposed aircraft.

02
Clarify the broker’s role.

Ask whether it acts as your agent, the carrier’s agent or an indirect air carrier.

03
Review costs and disclosures.

Ask about total costs, separate charges and broker insurance disclosures.

Compare charter quotes →Read legal & agreement →

Independent guidance

Go to the original sources.

FAA
Verify charter authorization.

Ask to see the operator’s certificate and confirm aircraft authorization.

FAA charter guidance
U.S. DOT / eCFR
Understand broker disclosures.

Read the rules covering broker roles and customer disclosures.

Read 14 CFR Part 295
The Air Charter Association
Understand the broker’s work.

Explore sourcing, due diligence and coordination responsibilities.

Using a charter broker

Independent references; no endorsement implied. U.S. rules may differ from other jurisdictions.

Questions

Know who flies you.

Clear answers to common questions about brokers, operators and your charter.

Does booking through a broker mean the broker flies the aircraft?

No. The operating carrier performs the flight. Confirm its identity and the broker’s role in your agreement. On a JetNine booking, the operating carrier and tail number are stated on your trip sheet before you sign.

What does operational control mean?

It is the authority over starting, conducting and ending a flight. The operating carrier holds it, not the broker or the passenger.

Who tells me if the operator changes?

Ask who will notify you, how quickly, and whether the new carrier and aircraft will be confirmed in writing.

Where can I check charter authorization?

Ask for the operator’s certificate details and use the FAA guidance linked on this page to understand what to verify.

JetNine planning guides

Keep planning with clarity.

Choosing a charter companyCompare service and transparency.Read the guide →Charter safety checklistKnow what evidence to request.View safety checks →Comparing charter quotesReview aircraft, services and terms.Compare quotes →How to book a private jetFollow the booking steps.Explore the process →

Start with a clear trip brief.

Share your route, dates and cabin needs.

Discuss your trip →