SAFETY
Your safety is our priority, which is why we only work with ARGUS and Wyvern rated operators. What do these ratings mean and why should you consider it a necessity before stepping into any aircraft?
ARGUS and Wyvern are the leading independent safety and risk management auditors for both operators and brokers in the aviation industry.
GOLD
- Operating certificate for a minimum of one year
- At least one turbine aircraft on certificate
- In-depth Historical Safety Analysis
- Pilot background check
- Aircraft operational control validation
GOLD PLUS
- Operating certificate for a minimum of one year
- At least one turbine aircraft on certificate
- In-depth Historical Safety Analysis
- Pilot background check
- Aircraft operational control validation
- ARGUS On-site Audit with uncorrected findings
PLATINUM
- Operating certificate for a minimum of one year
- At least one turbine aircraft on certificate
- In-depth Historical Safety Analysis
- Pilot background check
- Aircraft operational control validation
- Emergency Response Plan
- ARGUS On-site Audit with uncorrected findings
- Functioning Safety Management System
Wyvern provides its PASS (Pilot & Aircraft Safety Survey) program, to give either a ‘Registered’ (entry-level) or ‘Wingman’ (advanced) standard to operators. The scope of Wingman Certification evaluation includes validating SMS performance in accordance with ICAO Annex 19 and ICAO Doc 9859.
VL Charter is a registered ARGUS Broker, allowing professional aviation brokers a widely recognized and well-respected designation that conveys the standards they uphold to both operators and clients. In order to qualify, ARGUS is conducting an intensive review of our practices, data, and documentation. Aircraft operators around the world are also audited for safety by ARGUS and Wyvern. These optional credentials allow aircraft operators to possess and promote ratings based on multiple factors including their safety history, maintenance measures, and training programs for the aircraft crew.
Aircraft operators are required by law to satisfy the appropriate country’s aviation authority and safety standards to operate any private flights. If this set of rigid requirements is met, an Air Carrier Operating Certificate is granted for operators in the US, also known as an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The requirements do vary from country to country, but it generally does include an audit of company safety policy, organizational competence, crew training, aircraft maintenance, flight planning, and general management. VL Charter only works with approved operators who have a current AOC and other applicable certifications.
At VL Charter we only provide charter on Part 135 Aircraft Operators. Operators of business aircraft that wish to conduct operations for compensation or hire are generally certificated under Part 135 of the FARs. As a certificate holding entity, the operator must comply with a number of FAA requirements regarding areas such as flight operations, maintenance and training. You can read more directly from the FAA clicking here.
NBAA (National Business Aviation Association)
VL Charter is a proud member of the NBAA. NBAA is the leading organization in Washington advocating for the business aviation community. NBAA represents the industry before Congress, government agencies, the courts, and international forums regarding policies impacting business aviation. As a member, we’re committed to participating in these efforts.
Mission Statement:
To foster an environment that allows business aviation to thrive in the United States and around the world.
NBAA’S Environmental Policy:
On behalf of the more than 11,000 members across the country, NBAA works to develop reasonable and balanced policies that support the industry’s twin objectives of promoting mobility while minimizing environmental impact. At the same time, the association’s professional staff have undertaken a variety of initiatives aimed at supporting environmental stewardship.
VL Charter vows to follow the NBAA Guideline for Air Charter Brokers. The purpose of this guide is to discuss regulatory guidance that must be followed and foster the use of best practices throughout the air charter brokering industry. In addition, the guide provides information that will help to protect air charter brokers in the course of their business. Read NBAA guideline clicking here.
MEASURES FOR LIMITING THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 DURING PRIVATE JET TRAVEL
Airports have established different procedures for passengers and employees. However, all airport staff are required to wear a mask at all times. Most airports have a separate private terminal, also known as FBO, which is specifically for private jet users and crews.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, FBO staff have been following strict social distancing and training guidelines, with hand sanitizer made available to passengers and crew members. The number of social interactions has been reduced to a minimum, so passengers will only interact with one or two staff members during their short time at the FBO.
Passengers normally spend very little time in the FBO, which provides a calm and uncrowded space. Security and immigration checks are made; they are very fast and efficient since there are no lines.
Most operators are requesting Health Declaration Forms prior to departure time. This is sent via email through VL Charter.
All surfaces must be disinfected before, after and in between flights with FAA approved disinfectants.
All aircraft receive 90-day treatments with FAA approved fogging machines.
Crew members are sanitizing their hands before entering and exiting the aircraft.
For your safety, crew members are practicing social distancing and no contact measures.
For your safety, crew members are practicing social distancing and no contact measures (this includes no handshaking).
Hand sanitizers are available onboard for both passenger and crew use.
Catering is prepared and delivered to the aircraft by premium catering suppliers, who have enhanced their already-rigorous hygiene measures. This is waiting on the aircraft when the passengers arrive so catering staff are not interacting with crew and passengers. Once wheels up, the passengers now usually serve themselves to food and drinks.
Federal Excise Tax of 7.5% (FET) will be waived on all flights until December 31, 2020.