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How we vet operators and aircraft

We use and share the best aviation safety data available. Then we add what no rating shows.

Last reviewed November 14, 2026 by Dan Harris, Managing Partner

How we vet, in one line

Third-party safety ratings are where our vetting starts, not where it ends. For every trip we also check the specific aircraft, the crew, the airport and the contract terms, and we name the operator and tail number before you pay.

Five layers, every trip

  1. The operator. FAA Part 135 certificate and third-party audits such as ARGUS and Wyvern, as a starting point.
  2. The aircraft. Why a specific tail is a pass, even when the company flying it checks every box: age, maintenance history and recent feedback.
  3. The crew. Experience on type and recent feedback we hear across the industry.
  4. The mission. Runway, range, weather and season at both ends. Right for one trip can be wrong for another.
  5. The terms. Contract and cancellation, reviewed with you before you sign.

Our role under DOT Part 295

Ironbird is an air charter broker acting as your agent under DOT Part 295. We don't own or operate aircraft. Every flight is operated by an FAA Part 135 carrier that holds operational control. Our job is to choose that carrier carefully and tell you who it is.

Want the checklist we use? Get the free safety guide, "Who Not to Fly With."

Who Not to Fly With

Our free safety guide: the documents to ask for, what safety ratings miss, and a 15-question checklist.