Private Jet Safety Ratings

When it comes to renting a private jet, there are thousands of companies eager to assist. Of course, for most clients, there are two key factors: mone

When it comes to renting a private jet, there are thousands of companies eager to assist.

Of course, for most clients, there are two key factors: money and safety. And these two elements are often interconnected.

Generally speaking, the safer the operation, the higher the cost.

However, how can one accurately assess the safety of a private jet charter? One of the best ways is to obtain additional safety ratings that have undergone audits.

When it comes to renting a private jet, new clients often confuse brokers with operators. However, it is very important to understand the difference.

Simply put, brokers are intermediaries. Brokers do not own the jets and do not control their operations.

Instead, brokers connect you (the client) with the company that actually manages the aircraft (the operator).

In a way, this can be compared to buying a house. When purchasing a home, you consult a real estate agent. This is the company that handles the payments and connects you with the seller. However, they do not own the house. They simply facilitate the purchase.

On the other hand, aircraft are managed by operators. In some cases, the aircraft is wholly owned by the operator. In other cases, they manage the aircraft for a client who wants to rent it when it is not in use.

Understanding this key difference will help clarify where safety standards should be applied.

Regarding safety, operators must undergo safety checks regardless. This is done to obtain a certificate of operation, allowing them to fly for compensation.

On the other hand, brokers do not need to undergo safety checks to operate. There is much less regulation concerning brokers. However, brokers are eligible for the safety certifications listed below.

Basic Safety

Obtaining additional safety accolades is no easy task.

Companies must undergo extensive audits, reviews, background checks, and more.

However, just because a broker or operator does not have these additional certifications does not make them unsafe.

In the United States, operators must have an Air Carrier and Operating Certificate (AOC), Part 135. To obtain an FAA Part 135 certificate, an operator must pass stringent inspections.

For example, according to Part 135, an operator must have a full management team overseeing all aspects of the organization. This includes having a chief pilot and a maintenance and operations manager.

Additionally, FAA Part 135 operators must undergo inspections for insurance and maintenance, and comply with strict crew rest schedules.

Therefore, if your operator is certified under Part 135 (which they must be—Part 91 operations are not permitted to fly for compensation), the FAA safety standards are already in effect.

However, in an effort to enhance safety and stand out, operators may voluntarily register for independent safety audits.

Three Players

In the realm of charter flights in business aviation, there are three key players regarding external flight safety ratings.

ARGUS, WYVERN, IS-BAO

Operators can be members of all three. However, due to stringent checks, operators are much more likely to hold certification from only one.

All three safety certifications are highly respected in the business aviation industry.

ARGUS

ARGUS has three levels of rating - Gold, Gold Plus, and Platinum.

All ratings require an operational certificate for at least one year, having at least one turbine-powered aircraft on the certificate, a thorough historical safety analysis, verification of operational control of the aircraft, and pilot background checks.

The additional Gold Plus requires an onsite ARGUS audit with unresolved findings.

Platinum, the highest rating, also requires an emergency response plan and a functional safety management system.

It is important to note that if an operator applies for an ARGUS rating and does not receive it, they will be marked as “Not Compliant.”

Thus, it is an exclusive club to have an ARGUS rating.

Operators must provide ARGUS with important data every 90 days, or they will lose their rating. This ensures that ARGUS ratings are always current.

Additionally, charter brokers are eligible to become ARGUS-rated charter brokers. This program ensures that the broker works to guarantee adherence to best industry practices and demonstrates a commitment to safety.

WYVERN

WYVERN operates similarly to ARGUS.

The audit ensures that operators adhere to best industry practices and regularly assess companies.

Again, as with ARGUS, both operators and brokers can be audited by WYVERN.

IS-BAO

IS-BAO is the international standard for the operation of business-class aircraft.

There are three levels of safety ratings that operators can qualify for.

Stage 3 is the highest level. It indicates that safety management systems are firmly embedded in the company culture and will be maintained over time.

Stage 2 is awarded after several years of safe operations, ensuring effective safety risk management.

And finally, Stage 1. This indicates that an appropriate safety management system (SMS) has been established.

One of the differences between IS-BAO and other safety audits is the standards they adhere to. Both ARGUS and WYVERN conduct audits according to FAA standards, while IS-BAO audits are based on the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Consequently, this means it is global rather than national.

As a result, IS-BAO standards are often considered even stricter than those of ARGUS and WYVERN.

Conclusion

So, whether you choose to work with a broker or an operator, independent safety certifications are an excellent way to identify the best options.

ARGUS, WYVERN, and IS-BAO are the leading independent safety auditors in the industry.

Therefore, if you seek a broker or operator approved by one of these organizations, you are likely to be in reliable hands.