Ironbird Podcast

Jan 30, 2025

Private Jet Broker vs. Private Jet Operator: Which One Fits Best?

Owning a jet doesn’t guarantee availability. Doug Gollan shares how jet cards and backup coverage keep your travel plans protected.

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Episode Highlights

Should you book with a private jet broker or go directly to a charter operator? This is one of the biggest decisions for anyone flying privately. In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, we break down the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of both options with insights from Fly Alliance and Chapman Freeborn.

What’s the difference?

  • A private jet broker acts as a middleman, sourcing aircraft from various operators to find the best deal for the client.

  • A private jet operator owns or manages aircraft directly and is responsible for the actual flights.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • The pricing differences between brokers and operators

  • How availability and aircraft selection change depending on who you book with

  • When a broker makes more sense vs. when to book directly with an operator

  • How to determine which option best fits your travel frequency, needs, and budget

  • Common misconceptions about brokers and operators

🚀 Who should listen?

  • Frequent flyers looking for the best pricing & flexibility

  • First-time private jet travelers trying to understand the market

  • Businesses and corporations booking charter flights for executives

  • Private jet owners curious about how operators and brokers work together

👉 Learn more about private jet travel and get expert insights at www.flyironbird.com.

🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor, Video Valet!
Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase.

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Jet To is proudly powered by Ironbird Partners, LLC: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) is acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) and does not own, or operate, any of the aircraft represented. Inquiries and contracts are for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Ironbird Partners, LLC is an Air Charter Broker and not a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.

© Ironbird. All rights reserved.

Jet To is proudly powered by Ironbird Partners, LLC: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) is acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) and does not own, or operate, any of the aircraft represented. Inquiries and contracts are for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Ironbird Partners, LLC is an Air Charter Broker and not a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.

© Ironbird. All rights reserved.

Jet To is proudly powered by Ironbird Partners, LLC: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) is acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) and does not own, or operate, any of the aircraft represented. Inquiries and contracts are for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Ironbird Partners, LLC is an Air Charter Broker and not a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.

© Ironbird. All rights reserved.