Charter companies are similar to typical airlines, but do your research because charters have some different rules that may end up ruining your trip. Below are examples:
- A charter flight can be cancelled by the company for any reason for up to ten days before the trip.
- A charter company might be able to raise the prices up to 10% after you sign up.
- The charter company may overbook Spring Breakers to make more money and include a contract provision allowing it to delay return flights for up to three days without letting you know ahead of time. You may be stuck in your vacation destination waiting for a flight.
Make sure the charter is registered: Write a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Consumer Affairs in Washington, D.C. Include the operator's name and ask to check the charter company's registration. You can also call the Department of Transportation Public Charter Licensing Division (202-366-1037) to confirm the charter company is licensed. For more information on charter flights, go to https://www.stratosjets.com/blog/difference-between-charter-flights-and-scheduled-flights/.
The Federal Trade Commission's website also discusses charter flights at www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt029.shtm.