Private Jet Crew Requirements: Why Stratos Requires Two Pilots

Stratos Jet Charters requires two qualified pilots on every charter flight arranged through the Stratos network, even when an aircraft may be certified for single-pilot operation.

This two-pilot standard is part of the Stratos Safety Framework and our broader Risk-Managed Private Aviation™ approach. The goal is simple: reduce operational risk by ensuring every mission is supported by experienced, properly credentialed flight crew.

Safety in the Skies

Before a private jet charter flight is confirmed, Stratos reviews key crew qualifications as part of the pre-flight operator and aircraft vetting process.

For jet aircraft, the Pilot-in-Command is expected to meet Stratos’ enhanced crew standards, including:

• Airline Transport Pilot certificate
• Current First Class Medical Certificate
• Minimum 3,000 total flight hours
• Minimum 1,500 hours as captain
• Minimum 250 hours in the specific aircraft type

The Airline Transport Pilot certificate, commonly known as an ATP, is the highest level of pilot certification issued by the FAA and is the same certificate required for airline captains. While FAA requirements establish the regulatory baseline, Stratos applies additional experience standards for charter flights arranged through its network.

Why Captain Experience Matters

Private jet charter missions often involve complex operating environments, including busy airspace, changing weather, short-notice schedule adjustments, unfamiliar airports, and passenger-specific requirements.

That is why Stratos does not evaluate crew qualifications by certification alone. We also review flight experience, captain time, time in type, aircraft suitability, operator history, and mission-specific factors before a trip is confirmed.

An ATP certificate confirms that a pilot has met advanced FAA certification requirements. Stratos’ additional experience standards help ensure the assigned captain has the practical flight background needed to support a safe, professional charter operation.

Two Pilots on Every Charter Flight

Some private aircraft are certified for single-pilot operation. However, Stratos requires two pilots on every charter flight arranged through its network.

A two-pilot crew provides additional operational redundancy and cockpit resource management. This allows one pilot to fly the aircraft while the other assists with communication, navigation, checklists, weather monitoring, and decision support.

For passengers, this standard adds another layer of protection and professionalism to the flight experience.

Passenger Safety and Independent Standards

Crew qualification review is only one part of the Stratos safety process.

Stratos is an ARGUS-Certified Broker, a distinction awarded through an independent audit process. ARGUS evaluates charter brokers based on safety practices, documentation, operational procedures, and compliance standards.

Stratos was one of the first private jet charter brokers to become ARGUS-certified and continues to maintain that certification as part of its commitment to safer private aviation.

A Higher Standard for Private Jet Charter

Stratos does not own or operate aircraft. Flights are performed by properly licensed third-party air carriers that retain full operational control of each mission.

However, before an aircraft is presented or confirmed, Stratos applies its own safety review process. That review includes operator suitability, aircraft status, crew qualifications, insurance verification, safety history, and mission-specific requirements.

By requiring two pilots, enhanced captain experience, and independent safety review, Stratos helps clients make more informed charter decisions and reduces avoidable risk before the aircraft ever leaves the ground.