Private Jet Safety
Understanding safety standards, certifications, and what to look for when choosing a charter operator.
Safety Ratings and Certifications
Third-party safety auditors evaluate charter operators on their safety practices, pilot qualifications, and operational standards. Here are the key ratings to look for:
ARGUS Platinum
HighestThe highest ARGUS rating, requiring on-site audits, comprehensive safety reviews, and verification of operational history.
ARGUS Gold+
HighEnhanced Gold rating with additional verification of operator qualifications and safety practices.
ARGUS Gold
StandardVerified operational history and basic safety criteria met.
Wyvern Wingman
HighIndicates the operator has passed Wyvern's rigorous safety audit and meets enhanced safety standards.
IS-BAO
HighInternational Standard for Business Aircraft Operations - a voluntary code of best practices for flight departments.
What to Look For
Pilot Experience
- •Total flight hours (look for 3,000+ hours)
- •Hours in type (specific aircraft experience)
- •Two-pilot crews for added safety
- •Recurrent training requirements
- •Background and credential verification
Aircraft Maintenance
- •Maintenance tracking systems
- •Compliance with manufacturer requirements
- •OEM-certified parts and service centers
- •Pre-flight inspection procedures
- •Aircraft age and refurbishment history
Operational Standards
- •Part 135 certification (required for charter)
- •Safety Management Systems (SMS)
- •Flight operations manual
- •Weather minimums and go/no-go criteria
- •Emergency procedures training
Insurance and Liability
- •Hull and liability coverage amounts
- •Passenger liability coverage
- •War risk and terrorism coverage
- •Certificate of insurance availability
- •Coverage verification with provider
Red Flags to Watch For
- •Prices significantly below market rates (may indicate corner-cutting)
- •Reluctance to share operator details or safety information
- •No third-party safety ratings (ARGUS, Wyvern, IS-BAO)
- •Operating under Part 91 for a commercial flight (illegal)
- •Single-pilot operations on aircraft that should have two pilots
- •Inability to provide proof of insurance