Choosing the right jet management company is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make as a private aircraft owner. From operational safety and charter strategy to financial clarity and brand representation, the right team can protect your investment and unlock revenue—while the wrong fit can expose you to risk, inefficiency, and loss.

Before you commit, ask these ten questions—to see if the answers align with your priorities and to understand how Pinnacle Aviation delivers unmatched safety, transparency, and charter performance.

1. What safety programs do you follow?

Be aware of vague statements such as, “safety is our top priority.” Look for a documented Safety Management System (SMS), active participation in third-party safety audits (such as ARGUS Platinum or Wyvern Wingman), and clear processes for reporting, tracking, and resolving safety issues.

Why it matters: The FAA now mandates SMS implementation for all Part 135 operators. A company without a compliant, functioning SMS risks losing its operating certificate—putting your charter revenue and reputation in jeopardy. Third-party safety ratings also influence your aircraft’s desirability among top-tier charter clients and insurance underwriters.

2. How are pilots recruited and retained?

Ask about the company’s standards for pilot qualifications—minimum flight hours, type ratings, and how often pilots receive recurrent training. But don’t stop there. Ask who is involved in the selection process. The experience and judgment of the Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, Director of Safety, and HR team are critical in ensuring not only skill, but the right personality and professionalism for your aircraft and your clients.

Why it matters: FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 119.69) specifically define the roles and responsibilities of key personnel in hiring and monitoring flight crews. These individuals are responsible for ensuring compliance, crew performance, and flight readiness. Meanwhile, insurance carriers often require documented crew experience, training, and stability. Consistency in crew assignments enhances safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort.

3. Who handles maintenance, and how is it monitored?

Understand whether maintenance is performed in-house or by third parties, and who is responsible for approving, overseeing, and verifying all work. Ask whether you’ll see original work orders, invoices, and signoffs.

Why it matters: FAA Part 135 operators are legally responsible for maintaining continuous airworthiness. Missed inspections, incomplete logbooks, or unverified repairs can lead to FAA violations or cause the aircraft to be grounded unexpectedly.

4. What happens if the aircraft is grounded (AOG)?

Mechanical issues and crew unavailability happen. What separates good operators from great ones is how they respond. Ask about their AOG response plan—do they have mobile maintenance access, alternate crews on standby, or reciprocal charter agreements to accommodate passengers?

Why it matters: Every day your aircraft is down, impacts your potential charter revenue and/or your personal use. Inconsistent operations also erode trust with high-end charter clients and brokers. A well-prepared management team minimizes downtime and has a plan in place to respond and recover.

5. How is charter demand generated?

Ask how the company markets your aircraft—are they working directly with top charter brokers, retail clients, or relying on wholesale discount platforms? Do they have a dedicated charter sales team, and how do they price your aircraft in relation to market benchmarks?

Why it matters: Quality charter demand comes from strategic positioning and strong relationships. High-end clientele are more likely to respect your aircraft, follow rules, and return for repeat bookings. Better utilization from premium clients also means less wear-and-tear on your aircraft.

6. What’s the owner’s share of charter revenue—and what gets deducted first?

It’s critical to understand how the charter revenue is calculated, and exactly which expenses (fuel, crew, positioning, catering, broker commissions) are deducted before your portion is calculated. Fuel surcharge can also be part of the revenue stream.

Why it matters: Seemingly favorable revenue splits can be undermined by hidden or padded deductions. Jet owners deserve clarity here to assess true ROI. These details are also critical for accurate tax reporting and profit-loss evaluation.

7. How transparent are costs?

Ask whether you’ll receive copies of original invoices for all third-party charges: fuel, maintenance, catering, crew hotels, hangar fees, etc.

Why it matters: Owners are responsible for accurately reporting aircraft expenses for IRS purposes. Non-transparent or undocumented charges can jeopardize tax deductibility.

8. What financial reports will I receive?

Ask for a sample of the monthly owner statement. A good report should break down hours flown (charter vs. owner use), revenue generated, expenses incurred, and net results—plus year-to-date summaries.

Why it matters:  Comprehensive and consistent financial reporting is essential for tax planning, budget forecasting, and verifying performance. Poor visibility can hide inefficiencies, overcharges, or underperformance.

9. What’s the company’s track record—and how did it come into business?

Ask how long the company has been operating under its current ownership. Just as important, find out how the company was founded: Was it built organically by aviation professionals who understand the day-to-day demands of ownership? Was it acquired as part of a larger corporate portfolio? Is it a standalone entity or part of a broader organization like a dealership, FBO, or investment firm?

Why it matters: The origin and structure of an aviation management company often reflect its core values and business motivations. An owner-founded business typically puts long-term client trust and personalized service at the center, while corporate-backed or rapidly acquired firms may be driven more by investor returns or fleet growth. Stability, consistency of leadership, and alignment of interests are critical—especially when your asset, safety, and charter income are involved. A clear understanding of the company’s roots and business model helps you assess whether their priorities are truly in sync with yours.

10. How would you describe your company culture?

Don’t overlook the human element. Ask how the company communicates with owners, how it handles complaints or disputes, and what standards it sets for crew appearance, client service, and aircraft cleanliness.

Why it matters: Your management company is an extension of you, especially when your aircraft is flying charter. A culture of professionalism and accountability not only protects your reputation but helps retain both charter clients and trusted personnel.

Final Thought:

The right questions lead to the right partnerships. By taking the time to dig deeper into these 10 areas, you’ll protect your asset, enhance your charter income, and build a trusted relationship with a management team aligned to your goals—whether that’s safety, service, profitability, or all three.

At Pinnacle Aviation, we believe that every jet owner deserves a management experience built on transparency, operational excellence, and personal trust. With over 35 years of experience, a flawless safety record, and a hands-on team that treats your aircraft as our own, we’re proud to be a management partner that owners rely on—and stay with.

Whether you’re evaluating options for the first time or looking for a better fit, we’d be glad to answer your questions, share real examples, and walk you through what it’s like to have your jet managed under Pinnacle Aviation.

Let’s talk about what matters most to you.

Contact me at [email protected] or 480-717-2783 to schedule a conversation with our leadership team.