GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Charter flight
A charter flight enters the picture when scheduled airline capacity is unavailable, too small, or ill-timed for a shipment's requirements.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/about/glossary/charter-flight/
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Definition & Explanation
A charter flight enters the picture when scheduled airline capacity is unavailable, too small, or ill-timed for a shipment's requirements. The charterer—typically a freight forwarder, shipper, or broker—leases an entire aircraft or a defined block of cargo space and negotiates routing, departure time, and price directly with the carrier or a charter broker. Although charter flights command a significant premium over scheduled services, they offer unmatched flexibility in timing and routing. Common use cases include urgent deliveries, oversized or heavy cargo, perishables, and destinations underserved by regular freight routes. The arrangement is governed by an air charter agreement covering liability, minimum load conditions, and cancellation terms.
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