PlaneFinder, an online matchmaking service for on-demand charter operators and potential customers, has turned the tables on the usual arrangement for bringing the two together. Customers can still shop for available flights but now aircraft operators can also shop for available customers. “Customers can anonymously post their travel plans and charter companies have access to search through the database and find passengers for their aircraft,” said Managing Director Justin Beitler.
Beitler said the website now has booking potential on 150 aircraft ranging from Pilatus PC-12s to BBJs. Often operators are looking to fill deadheads and will post the available flights at a flat rate. Customers looking for specific flights are able to indicate the size of aircraft they need and how much they’re willing to pay. In both cases, the postings are anonymous and PlaneFinder arranges for the direct negotiations to take place.
