Liftbrief / Comparisons
What should you send suppliers—and what should finance receive?
Send one consistent mission brief. Return one approval record that distinguishes evidence from assumptions. NBAA’s consumer guide supports advance supplier screening and provides a charter request-for-proposal approach; the template below is the desk’s own shortened version. (nbaa.org)
Supplier request template
Please quote the attached mission using the stated airports, local times and time zones, passenger count, baggage list, arrival deadline and permitted stops. Identify the contracting entity, broker capacity where applicable, proposed operating carrier and aircraft assignment process. State the total price, inclusions, conditional charges, taxes, validity, cancellation terms, substitution rights and recovery-cost responsibility. Please identify any requirement that remains subject to operator confirmation and provide the relevant supporting documents.
Approval-ready comparison
| Decision field | Required entry |
|---|---|
| Mission outcome | What must be achieved, by when, and for whom |
| Commercial alternative | Dated feasible itinerary—or documented reason it fails |
| Shortlisted options | Same mission basis and explanation of material differences |
| Known expenditure | Verified amounts and payment dates |
| Unresolved exposure | Unpriced items, prepaid balances and contingent costs |
| Delivery evidence | Carrier, aircraft-fit response and relevant diligence |
| Contract protection | Changes, cancellation, substitution and recovery |
| Recommendation | Conditional choice and why alternatives were not selected |
| Approval conditions | Evidence still required, responsible person and deadline |
| Authority | Budget signatory and emergency-spend limit |
Do not use a weighted score to compensate for a failed mandatory requirement. First resolve operating authority, essential mission fit, contractual identity and unacceptable financial exposure. Only then compare price, convenience and service preferences.
The practical conclusion is simple: buy a documented mission and a defined commitment—not an hourly rate, a programme label or a reassuring sales brand.