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Published: October 7, 2025
Working around airplanes every day sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Many people dream of being close to jets and the fast-moving world of travel. One great way to do that is by becoming an aircraft broker. These professionals help people buy and sell planes, guide them through paperwork, and keep deals running smoothly. It’s a job that mixes business, aviation, and people skills all in one.
In 2024 alone, about 2,300 pre-owned business jets changed hands, and the average sale took around 207 days—plenty of real work for brokers who know the process.
Before you jump in, it helps to understand what this job looks like, why it’s special, and what you’ll need to begin.
This post goes over the world of aircraft sales and see how you can start your journey toward a rewarding career in the aviation industry.
An aircraft broker acts as the middle person between aircraft owners and buyers. Their main goal is to help clients buy or sell the right aircraft at the best deals possible. They guide people through the process from start to finish—like a real estate agent, but for planes.
A broker spends a lot of time talking to clients, researching aircraft, and checking aircraft for sale listings. They study market trends to see what planes are worth and help their clients set fair prices. They also review documents such as the bill of sale, aircraft registration, and other paperwork needed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Some brokers focus on smaller planes, while others handle large business jet or private jet deals. A private jet broker may even work with charter companies or Part 135 operator groups that manage flights. Others may specialize as a charter broker helping organize private jet charter flights.
Every deal starts with understanding what the client wants. Brokers research the aircraft market, locate the right aircraft, and contact experienced brokers or sellers. Then comes negotiation, where the broker helps both sides agree on fair terms. They might coordinate escrow accounts to safely handle payments and ensure everything is correct before closing.
When a deal is ready, the broker checks that all FAA paperwork is in order, including the aircraft registration and bill of sale. Finally, they deliver the aircraft to its new owner or buyer.
To succeed as an aircraft broker, you need solid industry knowledge, strong aircraft knowledge, and a good professional network. You’ll also need to stay aware of industry trends and maintain a strong online presence to attract new clientele.
In short, an aircraft broker helps people make smart and safe choices when buying and selling airplanes.
The job of a broker is more than a paycheck—it’s a chance to connect people with their dream aircraft. Every deal is different. Some brokers help first-time buyers find a used plane. Others handle aircraft sales for high-end clients purchasing private jets or business jets.
Working as a broker means you can build relationships with pilots, owners, and companies. You get to be part of exciting aviation stories—like helping a small business buy its first charter plane or assisting a family in selling their aircraft safely. It’s rewarding to help clients reach big milestones in their aviation journey.
Because brokers often work on commission, the harder you work, the higher your rewards. Successful brokers can grow into running their own brokerage or jet brokerage company.
Each day can bring something new. You might spend the morning checking listing sites for the latest aircraft for sale, then handle negotiation calls in the afternoon. You may also talk with mechanics, lenders, or title experts handling escrow documents.
You learn a lot about the aviation industry—from aircraft registration rules to Part 135 operator requirements. You might even assist with special paperwork for international sales.
Many brokers continue broker training and sales training programs to grow their skills. A broker course can help with mastering negotiation and understanding effective strategies for buying and selling aircraft. These tools make it easier to compete with experienced brokers and expand your brokerage business.
In short, the aircraft broker job offers flexibility, adventure, and unlimited growth if you stay motivated and curious about market trends and industry trends.
Becoming a broker takes preparation. While you don’t need a pilot’s license, you do need a few key things to get started in aircraft sales.
Before helping others, you need solid industry knowledge and aircraft knowledge. Learn how planes are built, priced, and certified. Take a broker course, attend sales training, or get hands-on experience through an internship with a brokerage company.
You’ll also want to understand how the FAA handles paperwork like aircraft registration and bill of sale forms. Knowing how escrow works keeps your clients safe when they move money for large deals.
A great way to learn is through mentorship with experienced brokers. Watch how they handle clients, respond to challenges, and use effective strategies to close deals. Many new brokers start as assistants or in brokerage business support roles to gain real-world experience.
If you can, take part in a broker training or internship program where you can shadow deals involving private jet and business jet transactions. These experiences help you build your professional network and prepare you for your own deals.
When you’re ready, register your brokerage business and get a business license. Some states require certification depending on your services. Build a strong online presence through social media and aviation websites where you can post your aircraft for sale listings.
You’ll also want to establish partnerships with lenders, insurance agents, and Part 135 operator groups. A wide professional network helps you find more clients and aircraft.
Communication and mastering negotiation are key. Brokers who understand people can grow a loyal clientele. You’ll need to handle aircraft sales, jet brokerage, and charter broker roles with confidence and clear communication.
Finally, keep learning. Stay updated on market trends, industry trends, and aviation industry news to keep your edge sharp and keep building a successful career.
Becoming an aircraft broker can be an exciting path for anyone who enjoys airplanes, meeting people, and handling big deals. The process takes time and patience, but it’s possible to build a successful career if you learn the right steps.
In this section, we’ll look at what it takes to become a skilled professional in the field, how to build experience, and how to grow your reputation in the U.S. aviation market.
Before you start, it helps to understand what being a jet broker involves. Your job is to connect people who want to sell planes with people who want to buy them. You’ll help both sides through the decision-making process, making sure each deal is safe, fair, and legal.
Here’s what brokers often do:
You can start by learning how these steps connect and why each one matters. Many brokers begin with simple research and study. Others take an entry-level job in a related field such as aviation sales, finance, or maintenance to understand how deals work from the inside.
You don’t need a special college degree to start a brokerage career, but the right education helps you stand out. You’ll need strong sales, organization, and communication skills. Classes in marketing, business, or aviation management can help.
To become a good broker, focus on learning two main areas:
You can also take special broker training or certification programs to gain hands-on experience and building real-world confidence. Many programs cover topics like market trends and aircraft values, inspection checklists, and industry events networking.
If you want to become a private jet broker, consider taking advanced courses in private jet charter broker operations or management. Understanding the world of private jet travel gives you an advantage when working with wealthy clients or businesses that need fast, seamless travel options.
Reading about aircraft sales helps, but nothing replaces real practice. The best way to learn is through hands-on experience and building strong connections. You can look for an internship with an aviation sales firm or shadow an experienced broker.
During your early years, pay close attention to how professionals handle deals and communicate with clients. Watch how they review documents, arrange aircraft inspection appointments, and manage the entire client’s journey.
If possible, attend industry events like trade shows and conferences. These are great places to meet people who work in aviation, learn about market changes, and build your network.
You’ll also need to stay up-to-date on new market trends and aircraft technology. The industry’s needs evolve quickly, and being informed makes you look confident and professional.
The aviation business runs on relationships. Most brokers get new clients through referral or repeat business. That’s why your reputation matters from day one.
Here’s how to create a strong presence in the market:
As you build your connections, you’ll start to hear about new aircraft for sale and learn how to handle both seller’s and client’s needs more smoothly.
When you become a private jet charter, for example, you’ll often coordinate extra services such as ground transportation, catering, and flight planning. It’s all about offering top-notch service so clients trust you to handle every detail.
Once you have enough experience, you can think about starting your business. Setting up your own brokerage gives you freedom to build your brand and handle clients your way.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Starting small is smart. You can begin by helping people sell smaller planes or assisting a larger brokerage firm on commission. Over time, as your deals grow, you can handle new aircraft and larger business jet transactions.
Running your own brokerage means you’ll also manage websites, listings, and digital outreach. This helps you create a strong brand and up-to-date online presence that attracts clients from across the U.S. and beyond.
To succeed in this business, you must be flexible. Aviation is a fast-moving field with constant market changes. Prices shift, fuel costs rise, and market trends and aircraft values change quickly.
Stay aware of new laws and updates from aviation authorities. Keep your tools and knowledge fresh by reading industry newsletters or joining webinars. A successful broker keeps learning, listens to clients, and adjusts with the industry’s direction.
Having strong sales skills helps too. It’s not about being pushy—it’s about listening and guiding clients toward safe, smart choices. Brokers who understand people and respond to their needs will always be in demand.
A broker’s success depends on how they treat people. Every buyer and seller wants to feel valued and supported. When you take care of both sides fairly, you’ll build a solid name in the aviation community.
Try to make each deal seamless, from the first call to the final handshake. A happy client will tell others, which leads to a referral. Over time, this helps you grow faster than any advertisement.
Always be honest about aircraft condition, pricing, and timelines. Offer help with inspection, maintenance, and delivery. Be ready to answer questions about paperwork or financing. Clients trust brokers who stay calm and informed.
The more hands-on experience and building connections you gain, the stronger your confidence will grow. You’ll soon find that what it takes to become a reliable broker is steady learning, hard work, and genuine care for people.
As you gain experience, you might decide to become a private jet specialist. Working in the world of private jet sales or charters can be exciting and profitable. You could manage transactions for new aircraft or handle bookings as a private jet charter broker.
To become a private jet charter, you’ll need to understand how to manage client schedules, arrange ground transportation, and make sure every trip runs smoothly. This part of the business rewards brokers who offer top-notch service and quick problem-solving.
You might also focus on starting your business around private jet charter broker work, helping companies or individuals with charter flight options. Many brokers who specialize in private aviation start with smaller clients, then grow as their professional network expands.
The decision-making process in private aviation can be quick and demanding, so staying calm and confident helps. As you gain experience, you’ll notice that working as a private jet charter broker also improves your overall understanding of the aviation business.
To become a private jet broker or general aircraft broker, it’s all about learning, practicing, and connecting with people. You’ll gain experience over time, and your confidence will grow with every successful sale.
Starting a career as an aircraft broker takes patience, learning, and trust. Once you understand aircraft, clients, and the business side of aviation, you can truly make an impact. Keep growing your skills, connect with other brokers, and always focus on honesty and service.
Keep your tools and knowledge sharp, stay up-to-date on industry events, and listen carefully to clients. When you do these things, you’ll stand out in the aviation community and earn lasting trust.
Becoming a broker takes effort, but it’s worth it when you see your clients smile after closing a smooth, successful deal.
If you’re ready to take your first step toward a rewarding career in aviation, visit Flying411 to find tools, insights, and updates to help you grow in the world of aircraft sales!
No special FAA license is needed, but getting a business license and training helps you look more professional.
It depends on your experience. With mentorship or an internship, you can start in a few months.
Most brokers earn commissions, often between 1–5% of the aircraft sale price.
Good communication, honesty, market knowledge, and negotiation skills help the most.
Yes! Many brokers work remotely with online listings, calls, and video meetings.
