Luxury Travel at a Fraction of the Cost
Private jets are the gold standard of luxury travel. They offer speed, privacy, and efficiency that commercial airlines can’t match. But for many, the price tag has always felt out of reach.
Enter empty leg private jet flights – one of the industry’s best-kept secrets. Also called deadhead flights or one-way positioning flights, these discounted options let you fly private for up to 75% less than standard charter rates.
For business leaders looking to impress clients, leisure travelers chasing comfort, or even first-time flyers curious about private aviation, empty legs make luxury skies far more accessible.
What Are Empty Leg Flights?
The Concept Explained
An empty leg flight occurs when a private jet has to fly without passengers. This usually happens for two reasons:
- Repositioning: The aircraft needs to move to another city to pick up its next passengers.
- Returning to Base: After dropping clients off, the jet must fly back to its home airport.
Since the aircraft is already scheduled to fly, operators often list these legs at a heavy discount rather than let them go unused.
How Empty Legs Differ from Standard Charters
- Standard charter: You choose the schedule, aircraft, and route – but pay full price.
- Empty leg: You accept the pre-set schedule and route – but save big.
Why Empty Leg Flights Are So Affordable
The economics of private aviation explain the savings:
- Jets fly regardless – Operators incur costs whether the aircraft flies empty or with passengers.
- Any revenue is better than none – Even discounted fares offset fuel, crew, and operational expenses.
- High competition – Brokers and online platforms compete to fill these legs, driving prices lower.
This is why discounts of 50–75% off standard rates are common.
Average Pricing and Cost Savings
Empty leg pricing depends on the route, jet type, and timing.
Price Comparison Table
| Route Example | Standard Charter | Empty Leg | Savings |
| New York → Miami (Light Jet) | $20,000 | $6,000–$8,000 | 65%+ |
| Los Angeles → Las Vegas (Light Jet) | $8,000 | $2,500–$3,000 | 70% |
| London → Paris (Midsize Jet) | $15,000 | $5,000 | 66% |
| Dubai → London (Heavy Jet) | $90,000 | $25,000–$30,000 | 70%+ |
Who Benefits Most from Empty Leg Flights?
Empty legs suit specific types of travelers:
- Executives & entrepreneurs – Efficient for last-minute investor meetings or site visits.
- Leisure travelers – Spontaneous trips to popular destinations like Ibiza, Aspen, or the Bahamas.
- Luxury seekers on a budget – A taste of private jet life without the full price tag.
- First-time private flyers – A low-cost way to experience private aviation.
Pros and Cons of Empty Leg Flights
✅ Advantages
- Up to 75% cheaper than a standard charter.
- Same luxury experience: VIP lounges, direct flights, private cabin.
- More accessible for new customers.
❌ Limitations
- Routes are pre-set – limited flexibility.
- Often one-way only.
- Last-minute changes or cancellations if the primary client’s plans shift.
How to Find and Book Empty Leg Flights
Today, booking empty legs is easier than ever thanks to digital tools.
1. Private Jet Brokers
Brokers have access to live aircraft inventories and can alert clients instantly when empty legs appear.
2. Online Platforms & Apps
Apps like XO, Jettly, Victor, or PrivateFly list empty legs daily. Many allow real-time booking.
3. Direct with Operators
Some operators advertise deals on their websites or via newsletters.
4. Membership Programs
Certain jet card providers bundle empty legs into annual packages, giving members priority access.
Tips for Maximizing Cost Savings
- Stay flexible: Adjust dates and destinations to fit available legs.
- Sign up for alerts: Most apps send push notifications when deals match your preferences.
- Consider nearby airports: A flight into Teterboro may be as good as JFK, often cheaper.
- Pair flights smartly: Sometimes you can book two empty legs (outbound and return).
- Travel with friends: Splitting costs makes luxury travel surprisingly affordable.
Case Studies – Real-World Savings
Case 1: New York → Miami Weekend Getaway
A family of 4 booked an empty leg on a light jet.
- Standard: $20,000
- Empty leg: $6,500
- Savings: $13,500
Case 2: London → Paris Business Trip
An executive group of 5 booked a midsize jet.
- Standard: $15,000
- Empty leg: $5,200
- Savings: 66%
Case 3: Los Angeles → Aspen Ski Trip
A group of 8 used a super midsize jet.
- Standard: $25,000
- Empty leg: $8,000
- Savings: 68%
Empty Legs vs. Alternatives
Empty legs aren’t the only cost-saving model in private aviation.
| Option | Flexibility | Cost | Best For |
| Empty Legs | Low (fixed routes) | 50–75% savings | Spontaneous trips |
| On-Demand Charters | High (full control) | Full price | Business trips |
| Jet Cards | Medium (prepaid hours) | Discounted hourly | Frequent travelers |
The Smart Way to Fly Private
Empty leg flights combine luxury, savings, and exclusivity in a unique package. They aren’t perfect – flexibility is limited – but for those who can adjust, the rewards are immense.
Flying private no longer has to be reserved for billionaires. With discounts of up to 75%, travelers can access the same jets used by CEOs, celebrities, and royalty – at a fraction of the cost.
