Understanding Empty Leg Flights: A Guide for Private Jet Travelers

What are Empty Legs?

Empty leg flights, also known as repositioning flights, are private jet flights that return to their base without passengers. This occurs when a private jet completes a one-way trip or when the return flight is not booked. On average, around 30% of a private jet operator’s flights are empty legs.

How Do Empty Legs Occur?

• One-way trips: When a passenger only requires a one-way flight, the jet must return to its base empty.
• Unbooked return flights: If a return flight is not booked, the jet will fly back empty to be ready for the next trip.
• Operational reasons: Sometimes, operators may reposition jets due to maintenance, crew scheduling, or other operational factors.

Aircraft need to return to their base for various reasons, such as maintenance, crew rest, and operational requirements. The costs associated with these returns are typically included in the overall cost of a private jet charter. However, when no passengers are on-board the flight, the operator may offer the empty leg at a discounted rate to offset some of the costs or simply drive more revenues.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Empty Leg Flights

Advantages

• Significant cost savings: Empty leg flights can offer substantial discounts compared to full-fare private jet charters.
• Flexibility: You can often find last-minute deals for flights to various destinations.
• Environmental benefits: By filling empty seats, you help reduce the overall carbon footprint of aviation.

Disadvantages

• Limited availability: Empty leg flights are not always available, and destinations may be limited.
• Short notice: You may need to be flexible with your travel dates, times, departure and destination airports.
• Potential for Changes: Flights may be subject to changes or cancellations due to operational reasons, including last-minute cancellations by original customers. While cancellations can sometimes lead to empty legs, it’s important to note that not all cancellations result in an empty return leg. In some cases, the operator may be able to find a replacement passenger or adjust the flight schedule to avoid unnecessary repositioning. However, the potential for changes should be considered when planning your travel.

Companies Providing Empty Leg Flights

Several companies specialize in connecting private jet travelers with empty leg flights. These include:

• Brokers: Many private jet brokers have access to a network of operators and can help you find suitable empty legs.
• Dedicated companies: There are companies that focus solely on empty leg flights, offering a streamlined platform for searching and booking these flights.

The Myth of Cheap Empty Leg Flights

While empty leg flights can offer significant savings, it’s important to understand that they are not always as cheap as they might seem. Here’s why:

• Variable costs: Operators still incur variable costs, such as fuel, crew expenses, and landing fees, even for empty leg flights. They typically aim to cover these costs at a minimum.
• Demand and supply: The availability and pricing of empty leg flights can vary depending on demand and supply in specific regions.
• Hidden fees: Be aware of any additional fees or charges that may apply, such as fuel surcharges or handling fees.
• Higher prices for larger aircraft: Empty legs for larger aircraft tend to have higher prices compared to smaller jets. This is because larger or heavy jets have higher operating costs, including fuel, crew expenses, and maintenance. If you’re looking for the most affordable option, consider chartering a smaller aircraft in a normal way for the same price range hence enjoying greater flexibility in terms of scheduling.

In conclusion, empty legs can be a great way to experience private jet travel at a more affordable price. However, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence availability, pricing, and potential limitations. By working with reputable brokers or dedicated companies, you can maximize your chances of finding a suitable empty leg flight that meets your travel needs.