Empty leg flights are discounted, one-way private jet charters that occur when an aircraft needs to reposition without its primary passengers. For savvy travelers and business professionals, they represent a rare opportunity to access the luxury, privacy, and efficiency of private aviation at a fraction of the standard cost—potentially saving up to 75%. This guide will explain exactly how these flights work, who they are for, and how you can leverage them to transform your travel experience without the typical premium price tag.
Discover how empty leg flights offer private jet luxury at up to 75% off. Save time, travel in total privacy, and enjoy unmatched convenience. Find your perfect flight today.
What Are Empty Leg Flights?
An empty leg flight, also known as a ferry, deadhead, or repositioning flight, is a fundamental part of private aviation logistics. It occurs when a privately chartered jet needs to fly without its primary passengers. Common scenarios include an aircraft returning to its home base after a one-way trip or moving to a different airport to pick up its next clients.
Because the aircraft is scheduled to make this journey anyway, operators sell these empty sectors at significantly reduced rates to recoup operational costs. For you, the traveler, this translates into accessing the full private jet experience—exclusive use of the aircraft, privacy, time savings, and luxury amenities—at a discount typically ranging from 30% to 75% compared to a standard charter.
This model is ideal for high-intent buyers and decision-makers who value premium experiences but also appreciate strategic value and cost-effectiveness. It’s perfect for professionals who need to travel efficiently or individuals seeking a spontaneous, luxurious getaway.
How Empty Leg Flights Work (Step-by-Step)
Understanding the simple process demystifies this exclusive travel option and helps you book with confidence.
- The Need Arises: A client books a private jet for a one-way trip (e.g., New York to Miami). The aircraft now needs to return to New York or fly to its next assignment in Los Angeles, creating an “empty leg”.
- The Leg is Listed: The jet operator or broker lists this upcoming empty journey on a dedicated platform or sends it to partner networks, offering it at a discounted rate.
- You Find the Deal: You can find these deals through broker websites, specialized market aggregators, or by subscribing to empty leg alert services from private aviation companies.
- You Book the Aircraft: When you find a route and timing that suits your needs, you book the entire aircraft for that specific, pre-determined leg. It’s a fixed route, on a fixed schedule, but at a flexible price.
- You Enjoy a Private Flight: You experience all the benefits of a private charter. You arrive at a private terminal (FBO) just 15-20 minutes before departure, bypass all major airport hassles, and enjoy a private cabin.
Ready to explore available routes and unparalleled value?
👉 Compare Available Empty Leg Options Now
Empty Leg Flight Cost / Pricing Breakdown
Pricing is not arbitrary; it’s based on the aircraft’s operational costs and market demand. The key is evaluating the cost per flight hour for the specific aircraft type.
The table below provides a clear overview of what you can expect:
| Aircraft Category | Typical Seating | Sample Route (Empty Leg) | Starting Price Range (One-Way) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very Light Jet | 4-5 | Naples (NAP) to Geneva (GVA) | €8,000 – €10,000 | Small groups, short hops. |
| Light Jet | 6-7 | Klagenfurt (KLU) to Ostrava (OSR) | €5,500 – €7,000 | Efficient regional travel. |
| Midsize Jet | 8-9 | Teterboro (TEB) to Toronto (YYZ) | $9,500 – $12,000 | Cross-country comfort. |
| Super Midsize Jet | 9-10 | West Palm Beach (PBI) to White Plains (HPN) | $18,000 – $22,000 | Long domestic/transcontinental. |
| Heavy Jet | 12-14 | Boca Raton (BCT) to Farmingdale (FRG) | $17,500 – $25,000 | Large groups, intercontinental range. |
Important Pricing Factors:
- Route & Demand: Major, busy routes often command higher prices, while less common ones may offer steeper discounts.
- Aircraft Type: Larger, longer-range jets cost more per hour than smaller ones.
- Timing: Prices may drop as the departure date nears, but the best deals get snapped up quickly.
- Positioning Fees: If you want a slight change to the listed route (a “near-match”), you may pay extra fees to cover the additional repositioning.
Benefits of Empty Leg Flights Over Alternatives
Choosing an empty leg flight isn’t just about savings; it’s about upgrading your entire travel paradigm. Here’s how it compares to commercial first-class travel:
- Substantial Cost Savings: The most direct benefit is price. You can experience private aviation for 30-75% less than a standard charter, making it competitive with multiple first-class tickets for a group.
- Unrivaled Time Efficiency: The single biggest advantage for professionals. Avoid arriving 2+ hours early. Use private terminals (FBOs), arrive just 15-20 minutes before takeoff, and walk directly to your aircraft. This can save 3-4 hours of door-to-door travel time per trip.
- Total Privacy and Control: The cabin is yours alone or with your chosen guests. Hold confidential meetings, relax without disturbance, or enjoy quality time with family in a secure, exclusive space.
- Ultimate Convenience and Flexibility (Within the Schedule): While the flight time is fixed, your experience is not. The aircraft waits for you, and you avoid queues for security, check-in, and boarding. Luggage policies are also far more flexible.
- Full Luxury Experience: You receive the same high-end service, amenities, and comfort as a full-fare charter customer. This includes premium catering, comfortable seating, and personalized attention.
Best Use Cases and Real-World Examples
Empty leg flights are a strategic tool for specific travel needs. They are perfect for:
- One-Way Business Trips: Attend a meeting, conference, or site visit in another city without paying for the jet’s expensive return journey.
- Spontaneous Getaways: If you have a free weekend and flexible on destination, you can find incredible last-minute deals to European capitals, sunny Florida, or mountain retreats.
- Group and Family Travel: The math becomes compelling when splitting the cost. A family of four traveling on an empty leg can often achieve a per-person cost that is competitive with commercial first class, while gaining immense privacy and convenience.
- Avoiding Commercial Hubs: Fly directly into smaller, more convenient airports (e.g., Aspen ASE, Teterboro TEB) that are closer to your final destination.
Types of Empty Leg Flights and Aircraft Available
The available aircraft vary widely, allowing you to select the perfect fit for your mission.
By Aircraft Size & Capability
- Turboprops & Very Light Jets: Ideal for short regional hops under a few hours. Cost-effective and can access very small airports.
- Light and Midsize Jets: The workhorses of private aviation. Perfect for cross-country trips across the US or within Europe, offering an optimal blend of range, comfort, and cost.
- Super Midsize and Heavy Jets: Designed for long-range travel and larger groups. Offer stand-up cabins, private lavatories, and full sleeping accommodations for transoceanic flights.
By Booking Model
- Whole-Aircraft Charter: The most common model. You pay one fixed price for exclusive use of the jet for the empty leg.
- By-the-Seat (Less Common): Some operators may sell individual seats on an empty leg, similar to a luxury airline but with far fewer passengers.
How to Choose the Best Empty Leg Flight
Making the right choice involves more than just picking the lowest price. Follow this trust-building guide:
- Define Your Non-Negotiables: How many passengers? What is the maximum budget? What is the absolute latest you can depart?
- Prioritize Flexibility: Your success is directly tied to your adaptability. Be open to a range of dates and nearby departure/arrival airports.
- Use Reputable Sources: Book through established brokers or directly with well-known operators. They provide vetted aircraft, clear contracts, and support.
- Understand the Contract: Pay close attention to the cancellation policy. Since the empty leg depends on a prior charter, it can be canceled or changed with little notice. Know your rights and options.
- Plan for the Return Trip: Remember, this is a one-way ticket. Have a plan for your return, whether it’s a commercial flight, another empty leg, or a standard charter.
Need expert guidance to navigate your options?
👉 Compare Available Empty Leg Options Now
Is an Empty Leg Flight Worth It?
The answer is a definitive yes, if your priorities align with its nature.
It is worth it if: You value time as your most precious asset, travel in groups, prioritize absolute privacy, and have a flexible schedule. The monetary savings combined with the experiential upgrade present an unmatched value proposition.
Consider alternatives if: You require 100% schedule certainty for a critical event (like a wedding or a non-moveable meeting), are traveling alone on a route with expensive empty legs, or need to book round-trip travel well in advance. The potential for last-minute changes is a real trade-off for the lower cost.
For the discerning professional or traveler who can embrace some flexibility, empty leg flights are not just a cost-saving trick; they are a smarter, more efficient way to experience the pinnacle of air travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far in advance can I book an empty leg flight?
Typically, empty legs become available 24 to 72 hours before departure, though some may be listed a week or two in advance. Long-term planning is not usually possible.
Can I change the time or route of an empty leg?
No. The departure time, date, and route are fixed based on the original charter’s needs. However, some operators may accommodate a re-route for an additional fee.
What happens if my empty leg flight is canceled?
If the primary charter that created the empty leg cancels or changes, your flight will also be affected. Reputable brokers will notify you immediately and help find alternatives, but it’s crucial to have a backup plan.
Are empty leg flights safe?
Yes. Empty leg flights operate under the same strict regulations (FAA Part 135 or equivalent) and safety standards as any other private charter flight. The aircraft and crew undergo identical rigorous checks.
Is food and drink included?
Typically, yes. While some cost-cutting might occur, most empty leg flights include standard catering and amenities. It’s best to confirm this with your broker at the time of booking.
How do I get alerts for good empty leg deals?
The most effective method is to subscribe to email alerts or dedicated empty leg calendars from private jet brokers or operators. Some also offer mobile app notifications.
The world of private aviation is more accessible than you think. Empty leg flights remove the primary barrier—cost—while delivering all the efficiency, privacy, and luxury that make private travel indispensable for today’s leaders and professionals.
Don’t just dream about a better way to travel. Explore the real, actionable opportunities available right now and experience the definitive upgrade in air travel.
Ready to transform your next journey?
👉 Compare Available Empty Leg Options Now