Originally Posted by
f16falcon
This is why I like to research recommendations. Looks like a lot of mixed views here on Brokers in general so let's look at the obvious question. What is the best way to go if you are looking for a convenience and cost effective way to travel to anywhere in the US and Europe(western) on a moments notice?
-Good broker? Then which one?
-Purchase an aircraft and perhaps share the privilege/expense with a colleague or somehow figure a way to make money with the jet when you are not using it.
-Hire somebody to identify a few relevant charters that can handle your needs and then deal with extended notice requirements that these charters will bring.
I think the 2nd and third options are the way to go. The 3rd being the most attainable.
"Hire somebody to identify a few relevant charters that can handle your needs and then deal with extended notice requirements that these charters will bring". This is the process I would recomend. Majority of the people that fly on corporate jets have a PA of somesort. You only need a hand full of good charter companies. West coast AVJET, TWC or a company of that size. East coast there are various companies in New York area that one can get familiar with. For one stop shopping I would avoid smaller charter companies, they usually don't have the alot of manpower to always be able to find you an aircraft. Brokers make money by being in the middle get them out of the middle means one can save that 5-15 %. The savings in a year can pay for a PA's salery and then some. Plus charter companies cherish end users they look at brokers as necessary evils. I find that companies and pilots take extra pride in taking care of end users.