Aircraft Care Guide

Private Jet Charter: Broker vs. Operator

A charter operator holds an FAA Part 135 certificate and actually operates the aircraft and crew. A charter broker arranges the flight for you with one of those operators. U.S. rules require brokers to say they are acting as a broker and that the flight will be operated by a certificated carrier.

WHAT A PART 135 OPERATOR DOES

The operator holds the FAA air carrier certificate, maintains the aircraft under its program, employs and trains the crew, and has operational control of the flight. Its certificate and safety record are what matter most for safety.

WHAT A BROKER DOES

A broker shops your trip across a network of operators, compares aircraft and pricing, and handles the arrangements, which can mean more options than any single fleet offers. A broker does not own or operate the aircraft.

Under U.S. Department of Transportation rules, air charter brokers must disclose that they are acting as a broker and identify that the flight will be operated by an FAA-certificated carrier.

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU BOOK

Which operator will fly the trip, and do they hold a Part 135 certificate? What aircraft and crew will be used? What is included in the quote: fuel, fees, taxes, catering, and repositioning? What is the cancellation policy?

Last reviewed 2026-10-26

COMMON QUESTIONS

Is Pristine Jets a charter operator?

No. Pristine Jets acts as an air charter broker and does not own or operate aircraft. All charter flights are operated by FAA Part 135 certificated carriers.

Is it safe to book through a broker?

It can be, as long as the flight is operated by a properly certificated Part 135 operator. A good broker will tell you exactly who is operating the flight.

Need It Done?

Private Jet Charter

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