Two charter quotes for "the same trip" often are not. One may price a larger aircraft, leave out fees the other includes, or carry stricter cancellation terms. Compare the proposals line by line before you compare the totals.
Start with one identical itinerary
Write down each leg: date, local departure time, departure and arrival airport, and passenger count. Send that same request to every source, then check that each proposal prices exactly those legs. If a quote shifts an airport or a departure time, treat it as an alternate, not a like-for-like price. Ask for the alternate only if it solves a real problem, such as a shorter ground transfer.
Compare the aircraft and the carrier actually proposed
The aircraft make and model, the cabin layout and the direct air carrier that will operate the flight all belong in the proposal. A photo of a model is not a promise of the specific aircraft you will fly. Ask for the carrier's name and, when available, the specific aircraft. For bags, skis or golf clubs, see our baggage planning guide rather than assuming a seat count settles it. To verify who operates a flight, see the FAA's guidance on chartering an aircraft.
Compare total trip cost, not one hourly figure
An hourly rate is one input. Ask each proposal to show the total, what it includes, and what could be added later. Look for:
- Fees paid to third parties, such as airport or handling charges
- Charges that depend on the trip, such as positioning the aircraft or waiting time
- When payment is due and how long the quote stays valid
If one quote gives a total and another gives only a rate, ask the second to give its total in writing. Our pricing guide explains what drives charter cost; use it to ask better questions, not to assume a number.
Read the cancellation, change and substitution terms
Before you choose, read when each cancellation or change tier applies, who owes what, and how an unused or partly used trip is treated. Do not assume any proposal offers free cancellation. The written agreement controls. U.S. rules require certain disclosures from the party that sells the flight; see 14 CFR 295.24 for what must be disclosed and when.
Ask how you will be notified if the carrier, aircraft or timing changes, what alternatives would be offered, and whether you must accept in writing. A substitute is not automatically equivalent, so check the cabin, range and operator again before you accept it.
Put the quotes in one checklist
Use the same fields for every proposal:
- Itinerary: legs, local times, airports and passengers
- Aircraft and carrier: model, specific aircraft if given and operating carrier
- Included total: the full amount in writing and what it covers
- Possible extras: fees or charges that could be added
- Payment and expiry: when payment is due and how long the quote holds
- Cancel and change: tiers, amounts owed and refund treatment
- Substitution: notice, alternatives and your written acceptance
A blank field is an unanswered question. Send the proposal back before you decide.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I compare hourly rates alone? Rates do not show the aircraft, the legs priced, or the extra charges. Two quotes with the same rate can total very different amounts.
Are taxes and extras included? Do not assume so. Ask each proposal to state what the total includes and what is excluded.
Does the lowest quote mean the same aircraft? No. Check the model, cabin and operating carrier on each proposal.
Can the aircraft or timing change after I accept? It can, depending on the agreement. Read the substitution and change terms before you accept.
Ready to compare real proposals? Request a charter proposal with your legs, dates and passenger count, and we will respond with the carrier, aircraft and written terms to review.
