Empty Leg Flights: Your Guide to Cheap Private Jet Travel

The allure of private aviation is undeniable—skipping the lines, setting your own pace, and traveling in complete comfort. While the cost of a full charter reflects that bespoke service, there is a way to enjoy the same perks for much less. Enter the empty leg flight, the smartest way to find value in luxury travel. These are the real ‘cheap private jet flights’ that experienced travelers use. They arise when an aircraft needs to fly to a new location for its next scheduled trip. Rather than fly empty, operators offer these one-way journeys at a steep discount. You still receive the full Hangar 7 experience, from safety to service, but at a price that makes spontaneous getaways and flexible business trips a reality. Let’s explore how you can make this work for you.

Key Takeaways

• Get the Private Jet Experience for Less: Repositioning flights offer the full luxury and privacy of a private charter at a fraction of the cost. The key is that you trade scheduling control for significant savings, as the flight's route and timing are predetermined.
• Flexibility and Speed Are Your Best Tools: To secure a great deal, be open with your travel dates and destinations. The best strategy is to sign up for flight alerts from trusted operators and be ready to book quickly, as these opportunities are time-sensitive.
• Always Do Your Homework Before Booking: A great price is only part of the equation. Always verify an operator's safety record, ask for an all-inclusive quote to avoid hidden fees, and understand the cancellation policy before you commit to a flight.

What Is an Empty Leg Flight?

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying private without the full price tag, you’ll want to know about one of the smartest ways to travel: the repositioning flight. Often called an empty leg, this is your ticket to the full private jet experience—the luxury, the privacy, the convenience—at a fraction of the typical cost. It’s not a different class of service; it’s a different way of booking. These opportunities arise from the simple logistics of private aviation. A jet might be booked for a one-way trip from Miami to New York, but its next client is in Chicago. That flight from New York to Chicago needs to happen whether there are passengers on board or not.

Instead of flying an empty aircraft, operators offer these repositioning flights at a significant discount. This approach helps them cover fuel and operational costs while giving travelers an incredible opportunity. For you, it means gaining access to a world of exclusive travel that might have seemed out of reach. The key is a willingness to be flexible. You can’t dictate the schedule or the route, but if your plans align with an available flight, you can secure an entire private jet for a price that rivals a first-class commercial ticket. It’s the perfect solution for spontaneous getaways, flexible business trips, or simply experiencing the pinnacle of air travel.

The Definition of an Empty Leg Flight

Think of an empty leg flight as a one-way trip for a private jet. After a jet completes a chartered flight and drops off its passengers, it often needs to return to its home base or fly to a new airport for its next assignment. Instead of making this trip without passengers, operators offer the flight to travelers at a deeply discounted rate. You still get the same premium aircraft and service you would with a standard private charter, but at a much lower price point. It’s a win-win situation: the operator covers their repositioning costs, and you get an incredible deal on a private flight.

How Do Empty Leg Flights Work?

The key to securing one of these flights is flexibility. Because the flight’s purpose is to reposition the aircraft, the departure and arrival locations, as well as the timing, are already set by the operator. You can’t create your own schedule; instead, your job is to find a flight that already matches your travel needs. You can browse available repositioning flights to see if any align with your plans. If you find a match, you can book the entire aircraft for yourself and your guests. This is the fundamental trade-off: you exchange scheduling control for a significant cost saving on an unparalleled travel experience.

The Pros and Cons of Flying Empty Leg

The most significant advantage of booking a repositioning flight is the cost. You can save anywhere from 30% to 75% compared to the price of a traditional charter. Despite the discount, you still receive the full private experience—no sharing the cabin with strangers. You’ll enjoy the same level of luxury and privacy, often on the same high-end aircraft available for standard charters. The main drawback is the lack of flexibility. The schedule is fixed, and since these are typically one-way trips, you'll need to arrange your own transportation for the return journey. There's also a small chance the flight could be canceled if the original charter that created the repositioning leg is changed by the primary client.

Compare the Costs: Empty Leg vs. Traditional Flights

When you think of private aviation, "budget-friendly" might not be the first phrase that comes to mind. However, savvy travelers know there are ways to enjoy the unparalleled luxury and convenience of a private jet without paying the full charter price. The key is understanding your options. Empty leg flights, also known as one-way charters, present a fantastic opportunity to experience private travel at a fraction of the typical cost. These flights occur when a jet needs to reposition for its next booked trip, and the operator offers the flight at a significant discount to avoid flying an unoccupied aircraft.

To really see the value, it helps to compare the cost of an empty leg flight not only to a traditional private charter but also to a first-class commercial ticket. Each offers a different level of service, flexibility, and price. A traditional private jet charter gives you complete control over your schedule and destination, making it the gold standard for bespoke travel. A first-class seat on a commercial airline offers comfort but still operates on a fixed schedule with all the hassles of a public airport. An empty leg flight sits in a sweet spot, offering the exclusive experience of a private jet with a price point that can sometimes compete with commercial premium cabins.

Cost Breakdown: Empty Leg, Private Charter, and First Class

Let's look at the numbers. A traditional private charter for a light jet typically runs between $2,000 and $6,000 per hour. The final price depends on the aircraft size, distance, and flight duration. In contrast, an empty leg flight is priced as a one-time trip, not by the hour, and comes with a substantial discount. While the price varies, it's significantly lower than a standard charter. When you compare this to a last-minute, cross-country first-class ticket on a commercial airline, which can easily cost several thousand dollars per person, the value of securing an entire private jet for your group on an empty leg flight becomes crystal clear.

How Much You Can Expect to Save

The savings on an empty leg flight can be dramatic. You can expect to save anywhere from 30% to 75% compared to the cost of a standard private charter. This is a huge discount that makes the private jet experience more accessible than many people realize. For example, a flight that might normally cost $20,000 could be available for as little as $5,000. These savings allow you to enjoy all the perks of private travel—no lines, complete privacy, and personalized service—for a price that can be surprisingly competitive. It’s an ideal way to get the full private jet experience without the premium price tag.

Is an Empty Leg Flight a Good Value?

Absolutely, as long as your travel plans are flexible. The main trade-off for the lower price is that the flight's destination and departure time are predetermined. You have to fit your schedule to the flight's existing itinerary. However, the value you receive is exceptional. You still get the entire aircraft to yourself, meaning you can travel with family, friends, or colleagues in total privacy and comfort. If you can align your plans with an available empty leg flight, it offers perhaps the best value in luxury travel. And if a specific flight doesn't work for you, you can always book a full charter to fit your exact needs.

How to Find and Book Empty Leg Flights

Finding a one-way private flight at a steep discount is all about knowing where to look and acting quickly. Several charter companies and brokers specialize in listing these opportunities. The key is to monitor a few reliable sources so you're ready when a flight that fits your needs appears.

Where to Find the Best Empty Leg Deals

Your search for the perfect flight starts with a handful of trusted platforms. While some are marketplaces that aggregate flights from various operators, others are direct providers. It's a good idea to check a few different sources, as inventories can vary significantly.

Hangar 7 Aviation

We pride ourselves on providing direct access to premium travel opportunities. Our dedicated empty leg listings are constantly updated, offering significant savings on the same luxury private jet experience our clients expect. You can easily search for available flights and find a route that works for you, all backed by our commitment to safety and reliability.

Jettly

Jettly is a popular marketplace where you can find empty leg flights for up to 75% off the standard charter price. They recommend signing up for notifications to get an alert the moment a deal that matches your criteria becomes available, giving you a head start.

Catch-a-Jet

With a focus on making private jet travel more accessible, Catch-a-Jet offers deeply discounted one-way flights. You can find and book these deals quickly through their app or website, making it a convenient option for spontaneous trips.

XO

XO provides a curated list of exclusive empty leg flights and other private jet deals. Their platform is designed for discovering flight specials, allowing you to save on your next journey without compromising on the luxury experience.

JetSuite

JetSuite is another operator that features a range of empty leg options. Their platform makes it simple for travelers to find and book these flights, turning luxury travel into a more attainable goal at a fraction of the typical cost.

PrivateFly

PrivateFly offers a dedicated section on its website that showcases available empty leg routes and their prices. The platform is built to help you find the best deals quickly, with a clear layout of departure and arrival locations.

Blade

Known for its modern approach to air travel, Blade also gives travelers access to empty leg flights. Their service is tailored for those who value both convenience and affordability, offering reduced rates on luxury air travel.

Tips to Secure a Great Deal

Once you know where to look, the next step is using a few smart strategies to land the best possible price. Because these flights are in high demand, a little preparation can make all the difference between seeing a deal and actually booking it.

Be Flexible With Your Travel Plans

Flexibility is your best friend when hunting for these deals. The flight's destination, date, and time are already set by the operator to reposition the aircraft. You can't choose a custom schedule, so you need to adapt your plans to the flight's existing itinerary. The more open you are with your timing, the more options you'll find.

Set Up Alerts to Stay Informed

Instead of constantly checking websites, let the deals come to you. Most platforms allow you to set up alerts for specific routes or regions. You'll receive a notification the instant a matching flight becomes available, giving you a critical time advantage over other potential passengers looking at the same deals.

Consider Last-Minute Bookings

Empty leg deals can appear and disappear in the blink of an eye, with many of the best prices popping up just a few days—or even hours—before departure. If your schedule allows for spontaneity, keeping an eye out for last-minute opportunities is a great way to secure a fantastic rate.

Explore Membership Programs

Some companies offer membership programs that provide priority access to empty leg flights and other perks. For frequent flyers, joining a program can be a worthwhile investment, ensuring you're among the first to know about new listings and exclusive offers.

What to Know Before You Book

Finding a great deal on an empty leg flight feels like hitting the jackpot, but it’s smart to look at the details before you commit. While the price is a major draw, you want to ensure the entire experience meets your standards, from the service and aircraft to the terms of the agreement. A little due diligence upfront ensures your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as you expect. Asking the right questions will help you confirm you’re getting both incredible value and a premium travel experience.

Check for Additional Fees and Services

Empty leg flights can offer incredible savings, sometimes up to 75% off the cost of a regular private jet charter. However, the initial quote might not be the final price. Be sure to ask about any potential additional fees. These can include costs for premium catering, ground transportation, international fees, or even de-icing services during colder months. To avoid any surprises, request a detailed, all-inclusive quote that breaks down every cost. A transparent operator will have no problem providing this, ensuring you understand exactly what you’re paying for with your private charter.

Evaluate an Operator's Safety and Reliability

A lower price should never mean a compromise on safety. When you book an empty leg, you’re still entrusting your well-being to the operator. It's crucial to fly with a provider that upholds the highest safety and service standards. Look for operators with top-tier safety ratings from third-party auditors like ARGUS or Wyvern. At Hangar 7, our commitment to safety and reliability is unwavering, whether you're on a standard charter or an empty leg flight. Always verify the operator's credentials and safety record before booking to ensure peace of mind.

Assess Your Aircraft Options and Amenities

One of the best parts of booking an empty leg is that you get the entire plane to yourself without having to share it with strangers. You get the full private experience at a fraction of the cost. Still, it’s a good idea to confirm which aircraft you’ll be flying on. Make sure it suits your needs in terms of passenger capacity, luggage space, and range. You can also inquire about the onboard amenities, such as Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and refreshment options. Reviewing the operator’s fleet can give you a good idea of the quality and comfort you can expect.

Review the Cancellation Policies and Terms

Empty leg flights exist because they are tied to a primary charter, which gives them a degree of unpredictability. The original passenger’s plans can change, which means your empty leg flight could be rescheduled or canceled. Because these deals can change frequently, it's important to be aware of the cancellation policies. Before you book, read the terms and conditions carefully. Understand what happens if the flight is canceled by the operator. Will you receive a full refund, or will they offer an alternative flight? Knowing this information upfront helps you manage expectations for your empty leg trip.

Improve Your Chances with Smart Timing

Finding a great deal on a one-way private flight is all about timing. These flights, often called repositioning flights, happen when a jet needs to fly to a new location for its next scheduled charter. Instead of flying without passengers, operators offer these one-way trips at a significant discount. Because they are created to serve another client's itinerary, they don’t follow a predictable schedule like commercial airlines and can appear and disappear quickly. This is where smart timing comes in. By understanding the patterns of private aviation and using a few key strategies, you can significantly increase your odds of securing a flight that fits your schedule and budget. It requires a bit of flexibility and foresight, but the payoff—a luxurious travel experience for a fraction of the typical cost—is well worth it. Think of it as being in the right place at the right time, with a little bit of planning to help you get there.

When Is the Best Time to Look for Empty Leg Flights?

The best time to look for a one-way flight is, simply, all the time. Think of these flights as one-way trips for private jets. An aircraft might drop off a client in Miami and need to return to its base in New York or fly to its next pickup location in Aspen. That repositioning flight is the opportunity. Since these flights are scheduled around a primary client's itinerary, they can become available at any moment, often just a few days or weeks in advance. The key is to be prepared and check for available flights regularly. Staying vigilant means you’ll be one of the first to know when a jet is heading your way.

Use Seasonal Trends to Your Advantage

While one-way flights can pop up anytime, you can use seasonal travel trends to your advantage. During peak seasons, like summer holidays or winter ski season, more people are chartering private jets to popular destinations. This increased traffic naturally leads to more repositioning flights. For example, after a major holiday weekend, you might find numerous aircraft leaving vacation spots and returning to major cities. Booking one of these flights can lead to incredible savings, often ranging from 30% to 75% off the price of a standard private charter. By aligning your search with these seasonal movements, you can find more options and better deals.

Create a Strategy for Regular Travel

If you travel frequently, a little flexibility can go a long way. Being open with your travel dates and times is the single best way to find a one-way flight that works for you. If your schedule allows, consider leaving a day earlier or later than planned. You might also find a flight to a nearby airport that is still convenient for your final destination. For those who travel the same routes regularly for business or personal reasons, it’s smart to keep a constant watch on those specific city pairings. Having a strategy and being adaptable makes it much easier to match your travel needs with an available aircraft.

Make the Most of Loyalty Programs

Let the deals come directly to you by signing up for alerts. Most private aviation companies, including Hangar 7, offer mailing lists or notification systems for their one-way flight opportunities. This is the most efficient way to stay informed without having to constantly check a website. When you subscribe, you’ll receive alerts when a flight matching your preferred routes becomes available, giving you a head start on booking. For those who fly private often, building a relationship with a trusted provider can also lead to priority access. It’s a simple step that ensures you never miss an opportunity for a well-priced, convenient private flight.

Related Articles

• Empty Leg Flights | Hangar 7 Aviation
• Empty Leg Private Jets 101: The Ultimate Guide
• Fly Private Jet Empty Leg: A Guide to Finding Deals

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the catch with these flights? They seem too good to be true. There really isn’t a catch, but there is a trade-off. The significant discount comes from the fact that the flight's schedule and route are already fixed. The jet needs to be in a specific city at a specific time for its next client, and you’re essentially hitching a ride. You give up the ability to customize your itinerary in exchange for a fantastic price on a private flight.

Is the service or aircraft quality different from a standard charter? Not at all. You receive the exact same premium experience, including the same high-end aircraft, professional crew, and level of privacy you would with a full-priced charter. The only difference is the price you paid and the fact that the schedule was predetermined. You are booking the same luxury service, just in a smarter way.

Can I book a round-trip repositioning flight? It's highly unlikely. Since these flights are one-way by nature, finding two separate repositioning flights that perfectly align for a round trip is nearly impossible. The best approach is to book the one-way deal that works for you and then arrange your return transportation separately, whether that’s another private charter or a commercial flight.

What happens if the flight I book gets canceled? This is an important point to consider. Because your flight is dependent on the original charter that created it, there is a small chance it could be changed or canceled if the primary client alters their plans. A reputable operator will have a clear policy for this situation, which typically includes a full refund. Always be sure to review the cancellation terms before you finalize your booking.

How many people can I bring with me on the flight? When you book a repositioning flight, you are booking the entire aircraft for yourself. This means you can bring along friends, family, or colleagues up to the maximum passenger capacity of that specific jet. The price is for the whole plane, not per person, which makes it an even better value when traveling as a group.