FlightPartner Introduces Improved Charter Market Software

Online charter marketplace FlightPartner has released the new V2 version of its software for brokers and operators. The latest version of the Cloud-based system promises a faster and improved user experience in which all aspects of a transaction can be handled through a single screen.

The software includes an advanced search engine that allows brokers to build complex trips and filter operators according to factors such as their safety audit ratings and specific onboard equipment (such as Wi-Fi). Other improvements include a more accurate instant quote engine, improved customer relationship management consoles (with information such as catering preferences) and internal payment processing. Pricing accuracy has been improved in part through integrating the system with scheduling software used by operators that feeds in data on airport charges and other costs.

FlightPartner launched two years ago and now includes more than 100 operators and 1,000 aircraft. It checks the credentials of all brokers signing up to use the system with a view to ensuring that operators are dealing with only the more professional and productive companies. Brokers are subject to a minimal monthly charge of $99. FlightPartner does not charge operators any subscription fees, but deducts a 3 percent transaction fee from the operator for the total aircraft hourly cost.

According to FlightPartner founder Doug Schmohl, his company offers an alternative to Cloud-based charter marketplace business models that depend on higher subscription fees, as opposed to being more directly tied to the volume of sales generated. “We have focused on vetting the charter sale process to bring legitimate charter sales to air charter operators and streamline the booking process for air charter brokers,” Schmohl explained. “Unlike other B2B platforms, we do not measure our success by the number of searches. In fact, we have based the viability of the company on the charter sale. Our revenue comes from a small transaction fee on the charter sale.”

In addition to internal credit card processing, FlightPartner is now allowing wire and ACH transactions to flow through its system, eliminating the higher fees associated with credit cards. “Operators and brokers no longer need to bounce between tools that are half-automated, don’t provide confirmed aircraft availability or result only in a bunch of requests for quotes,” added COO Christina Schmohl. “Our tool brings a sale that is ready for immediate close to the air charter operator.”