If you've never flown private before, this guide walks you through every step of the process, from your first conversation with an advisor to the moment you board.
Chartering a private jet is simpler than most people expect. You contact a broker, describe your trip, review aircraft options, and confirm your flight — typically within a few hours. The Joel Thomas Agency handles every detail, from aircraft selection to safety verification, so you can focus on the trip itself.
Maybe a friend mentioned it. Maybe you've been stuck in a commercial terminal one too many times. Whatever brought you here, you're asking the right question — and the answer is more accessible than you might think.
Private jet charter doesn't require a membership, a jet card, or a long-term commitment. You charter the flight you need, when you need it, and pay for that flight. That's it. This guide walks you through exactly how the process works so you can move forward with confidence.
Before anyone can find the right aircraft for you, a few details matter:
You don't need to know anything about aircraft types yet. That's what your charter advisor is for.
Private jet brokers connect travelers with FAA-certificated air carriers. Not all brokers operate the same way. At The Joel Thomas Agency, the approach is simple: recommend only what's safe, be transparent about pricing, and help you make an informed decision — not just a fast one.
That means you'll get multiple aircraft options explained clearly, with the tradeoffs spelled out: cabin size, range, cost, and operator safety record. No pressure. No upselling. Just honest advice.
This part matters. Every aircraft your broker recommends should come from a vetted, FAA-certificated operator. The Joel Thomas Agency requires every flight to involve two qualified pilots and runs safety checks — including ARGUS CHEQ reports — on every operator before recommending them. Part 135 regulations govern air charter in the US, and a good broker should be able to explain what that means for your flight.
Once you've reviewed your options and selected an aircraft, your advisor will walk you through the charter agreement. Read it. Ask questions. A trustworthy broker welcomes them.
Most bookings can be confirmed within a few hours. Last-minute charters can sometimes be arranged with as little as four hours' notice.
Arrive at your Fixed Base Operator (FBO) — not the commercial terminal. FBOs are the private aviation facilities at airports, and the experience is night-and-day compared to commercial travel. No security lines, no gates, no waiting. You arrive, your aircraft is ready, and you board.
Established in 2006. The Joel Thomas Agency is an independent private aviation firm, backed by the Stratos Jets global infrastructure. Among the first ARGUS-Certified Brokerages in the industry — delivering vetted aircraft access, dedicated advisory, and Risk-Managed Private Aviation™ on every flight.
