Charter broker association seeks global expansion

Expansion of its international membership is a key focus of the Baltic Air Charter Association in its drive to raise standards in the air charter industry globally. The association, set up in 1949 to represent air interests within the predominantly maritime Baltic Exchange in London, is the world’s largest air chartering grouping, says chairman Dick Gilbert. In addition to air charter brokers, members include airports, airlines, business aircraft operators, handling agents, aviation lawyers and consultants. “We already have members from all around the world but believe we should be raising our profile more beyond Europe to help build professionalism and expertise in the air charter market,” says Gilbert. Chartering the right aircraft for any particular task can be a complicated procedure requiring specialist knowledge of aircraft, airlines, airports and a raft of regulations and procedures. Brokers have this specialist knowledge as well as the contacts needed to pull all the elements of the deal together. “Companies or individuals seeking to charter aircraft know that if they use a broker who is a Baca member, they are dealing with a professional who respects the highest standards of the industry,” says Gilbert. “They can be assured relevant aircraft operators in the transaction are appropriately licensed, certified and insured and dedicated to offering a totally reliable and secure service.” Baca runs annual awards for excellence in the air charter industry and offers networking events, training courses and individual advice. All Baca members are also members of the Baltic Exchange which allows them to use the facilities offered by the Baltic Exchange.