Private jet travel offers flexibility and exclusivity - but only when it's done safely and legally.
Illegal “grey charters” can sometimes be a hidden risk in the private aviation world that many travelers are unaware of. Here’s what you need to know about grey charters and how to avoid them.
What exactly is a grey charter?
A grey charter is an unlicenced charter operation. The carrier operating the charter it is not certified for commercial operations and therefore does not follow the authorities strict requirements for safety, training and compliance for commercial air transport.
What are the requirements for a safe & legal charter?
For an aircraft to operate a regulated charter, it needs to be operated by a carrier which holds a Part 135 certification or an Air Operators Certificate (AOC). These certifications are approvals granted by the Civil Aviation authorities of the country the aircraft is registered in. It grants the carrier the approval to operate commercial charter meaning to legally operate a flight in return for financial payment.
Why grey charters are a no-go
Sure, the price might look appealing. But here’s what you’re really risking when you book an illegal grey charter:
1. No legal protection
If something goes wrong – a delay, cancellation, or worse – you’re not protected. These flights are technically illegal, and passengers are often left with no legal recourse.
2. Invalid insurance
Grey charters typically carry insurance for private use, not commercial operations. That means if you’re on board as a paying passenger and something happens? You’re not covered.
3. Unknown safety standards
Unlike certified charter operators, such as those in Chapman Freeborn’s network, grey aircraft and illegal charters don’t go through the same rigorous maintenance checks, pilot vetting, or operational oversight.
4. Legal & financial risk
Booking or even flying on an illegal charter (knowingly or not) could expose you – or your assistant or travel manager – to liability under local aviation laws. Even unknowingly booking an illegal flight can result in serious legal consequences.
5. Reputation on the line
For VIPs, HNWIs, and companies, being linked to a grey charter can be more than inconvenient – it can be embarrassing or damaging to your brand.
Grey charter gone wrong: the Emiliano Sala case
On 21st January 2019 a Piper PA-46 Malibu carrying Argentine football player Emiliano Sala crashed in the English Channel.
The aircraft and pilot did not have the required certifications to conduct commercial charters, the pilot did not have a valid license and was not qualified to operate night flights.
The charter organizer, David Henderson, on October 28th 2021 was convicted on the charge of endangering the safety of an aircraft and jailed for 18 months.
How to spot a grey charter
The biggest red flag? Suspiciously low pricing.
If a charter offer comes in well below market rate, it could be an illegal grey charter disguised as a deal. These operators cut costs by sidestepping regulations, certifications, and proper insurance putting your safety at serious risk.
Not sure if it’s legit? Ask us.
With over 50 years of industry expertise, we know what a fair, legal charter should look like. We’re always happy to verify a flight for you whether you’re booking with us or just want a second opinion.
Why Flying with Chapman Freeborn Is Different
At Chapman Freeborn, we don’t cut corners and we don’t touch grey charters. We go above and beyond to ensure that every flight we operate is safe, legal, and fully certified.
Here’s what you get when you fly with us:
- Every charter fully certified and regulator-approved
- Full passenger insurance coverage
- Crews that are trained, vetted, and highly experienced
- Transparent contracts, tail numbers, and operator info from Day 1
- 24/7 support from enquiry to wheels down
As an accredited member of the Air Charter Association, Chapman Freeborn upholds the highest standards in the aviation industry, ensuring our clients receive only the best in safety, service, and reliability.
We’ve spent 50 years building trust across the globe. From business leaders and celebrities to royal families and government delegations, our clients choose us because they know: we take safety and service personally.
Got Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Whether you’re ready to book or just want to sanity-check a flight you’ve been offered, our team is happy to help, no strings attached.
Call us: +971 4 549 2100
Email us: [email protected]
Request a quote
With 50 years of experience in the charter market, we will give you the information that you need to make an informed decision.