Aircraft brokerage is a highly specialized career within private aviation that requires more than basic sales knowledge. Unlike traditional sales roles, aircraft brokerage involves complex transactions, regulatory considerations, and long-term client relationships.

Because of this, becoming an aircraft broker follows a progressive timeline, not an instant entry. Understanding how long it realistically takes to become an aircraft broker helps beginners plan their education, career moves, and expectations more accurately.

How long does it take to become an aircraft broker?

It typically takes 1 to 3 years to become an aircraft broker, depending on training, entry-level experience, specialization, and transaction exposure. Most professionals start in support roles, gain hands-on experience, and gradually transition into full brokerage responsibilities.

Why Becoming an Aircraft Broker Takes Time

Aircraft brokerage is not a trial-and-error profession. Brokers are entrusted with high-value assets, sensitive negotiations, and client representation. As a result, credibility and competence must be earned over time.

The timeline depends on:

• Level of professional aircraft broker training

• Type of entry-level aviation role

• Exposure to real aircraft transactions

• Choice of brokerage specialization

Those who follow a structured path typically progress faster and more confidently.

The Typical Timeline to Become an Aircraft Broker

Phase 1: Training and Industry Knowledge (0–6 Months)

The first stage focuses on education and foundation building. Most aspiring aircraft brokers start by learning how the private aviation market operates before participating in transactions.

During this phase, professionals usually:

• Learn private aviation terminology and aircraft categories

• Understand the role of aircraft brokers in sales, charter, and leasing

• Study basic transaction structure and compliance requirements

Structured aircraft broker training during this phase helps reduce early mistakes and builds professional credibility from day one.

👉 Explore structured private aviation aircraft broker training programs 

Phase 2: Entry-Level Roles and Transaction Exposure (6–24 Months)

This is the most important stage in the aircraft broker career timeline. Most future brokers work in entry-level positions that allow them to observe and support real transactions.

Common roles include:

• Aircraft brokerage assistant

• Charter support or sales coordination

• Operations or market research support

These roles provide exposure to:

• Deal flow and aircraft listings

• Client communication and follow-ups

• Market pricing and negotiation processes

Hands-on experience during this phase determines how quickly someone can move into a full broker role.

👉 Explore structured private aviation aircraft broker training programs 

Phase 3: Transition to Full Aircraft Broker (18–36 Months)

After gaining sufficient experience, professionals begin managing parts of transactions independently. At this stage, brokers start:

• Representing buyers or sellers

• Managing charter clients

• Earning commission-based income

This phase marks the transition from support to professional aircraft broker status.

Does Specialization Affect the Timeline?

Yes. The time it takes to become an aircraft broker varies depending on specialization.

Aircraft Charter Brokers

• Faster learning curve

• Higher transaction volume

• Often reach broker status sooner

Aircraft Sales Brokers

• Longer deal cycles

• Higher transaction complexity

• Require deeper market and valuation knowledge

Aircraft Leasing Brokers

• Strong financial and legal focus

• Longer learning curve

• Specialized expertise required

Choosing a specialization early can shorten the overall timeline.

Can You Become an Aircraft Broker Faster?

Some professionals progress more quickly, but only when following a structured path.

The fastest route includes:

• Professional aircraft broker training

• Entry-level experience under senior brokers

• Consistent transaction exposure

Skipping training or attempting to self-teach often results in slower progress and early career setbacks.

Common Reasons People Take Longer to Become Aircraft Brokers

Many beginners unintentionally delay their careers by:

• Avoiding entry-level roles

• Underestimating transaction complexity

• Lacking mentorship

• Expecting immediate commission income

Aircraft brokerage rewards preparation, patience, and consistency.

Career Expectations: What “Becoming a Broker” Really Means

Becoming an aircraft broker does not mean instant success. Early-stage brokers typically:

• Continue learning while handling deals

• Build long-term client relationships

• Increase earnings gradually over time

Professional credibility in aircraft brokerage compounds with experience.

Conclusion

Becoming an aircraft broker typically takes 1 to 3 years, depending on training, experience, and specialization. Professionals who invest in structured learning, start in entry-level roles, and gain real transaction exposure progress faster and build stronger, more sustainable careers in private aviation brokerage.

Explore Related Aircraft Brokerage Guides

• How to Start a Career in Aircraft Brokerage (Beginner’s Guide)

• Entry-Level Jobs in Aircraft Brokerage (Where to Start)

• Why Get Trained Before Entering Aircraft Brokerage? (Benefits of Certification)

FAQs:

Is it hard being an aviation broker?

Being an aviation broker can be challenging at the beginning because it requires learning complex transactions, market data, and client management. However, with proper training and structured experience, the role becomes manageable and highly rewarding over time.

How do you become an aircraft broker?

You become an aircraft broker by completing professional training, learning aircraft valuation and contracts, and gaining hands-on experience through brokerage firms or charter operations. Most beginners start with structured education before entering real transactions. Do aircraft brokers make good money?

Yes, aircraft brokers can make good money, especially as they gain experience. Income typically includes a base salary or commission structure, with earnings increasing based on deal size, transaction volume, and specialization in private aviation sales or charter.

Do you need a degree to be a jet broker?

No, you do not need a formal aviation degree to become a jet broker. While a business or aviation-related degree can be helpful, most successful brokers rely on professional training, transaction knowledge, and real-world experience rather than formal education alone.