How to Book Empty Seats on Private Jets & Save
Learn how to book empty seats on private jets and enjoy luxury travel for less. Get practical tips to find deals and make the most of private jet flights.
There’s a common misconception that private jet travel is always impossibly expensive. While chartering an aircraft is a significant investment, a logistical quirk of the industry creates a much more accessible option. After a jet finishes a trip, it often has to fly to a different city to pick up its next client. This flight, known as an empty leg, would otherwise have no passengers. Operators offer these empty seats on private jets at a deep discount to recoup fuel and operational costs. This isn’t a lower-quality service or a last-minute gamble on a lesser aircraft; it’s the exact same premium experience, made available through smart, efficient planning.
Key Takeaways
Use Flexibility to Your Advantage: Repositioning flights offer significant savings on one-way private travel, but they operate on a fixed schedule. To capitalize on these deals, your travel plans must align with the aircraft's pre-determined route and timing.
Partner with an Expert for Vetted Opportunities: The best way to find and secure repositioning flights is through a trusted charter advisor. They provide access to a wider network of flights and handle the critical safety vetting of the aircraft and operator for you.
Strategize Your Complete Itinerary: Since repositioning flights are one-way, plan your return trip in advance. A smart approach is to pair a discounted one-way flight with a flexible on-demand charter for your return, giving you the best of both value and convenience.
What is an Empty Leg Flight?
Ever wondered what happens to a private jet after it drops off its passengers? It doesn’t just wait around. Often, the aircraft needs to fly to another city for its next scheduled trip or return to its home base. When a private jet flies without passengers to get to its next job, that flight is known as an “empty leg” or, more accurately, a repositioning flight.
These flights are a routine part of private aviation logistics. Because an operator would rather cover the flight's costs than fly a completely unoccupied plane, they offer these one-way trips at a significant discount. For flexible travelers, this creates a fantastic opportunity to experience the benefits of private jet travel at a fraction of the typical cost of an on-demand charter. It’s one of the smartest ways to make private aviation work for you.
How Repositioning Flights Create Opportunities
At its core, a repositioning flight is a logistical necessity. Operators need to move their aircraft to be in the right place at the right time for their next full-fare client. This flight, where the plane is otherwise unoccupied, is a sunk cost for the operator. By offering it to travelers, they can recoup some of their operational expenses while providing incredible value.
This is where the opportunity comes in. Booking a repositioning flight can save you a lot of money compared to a regular private jet charter. You get the same aircraft and the same high level of service, but because you’re filling an otherwise unoccupied flight, the price is much more accessible. It’s a win-win for both the operator and the passenger.
Common Scenarios for Empty Legs
Repositioning flights are almost always for one-way trips. They have a pre-determined route and schedule that can’t be changed. For example, if a jet drops a client in Los Angeles and needs to be in Las Vegas for its next charter, the flight from LA to Vegas becomes an available repositioning flight.
Because these flights have fixed departure airports, destinations, and times, they work best for travelers with flexible schedules. You can’t create one of these flights from scratch; you have to find one that already matches your travel needs. Think of it as finding the perfect puzzle piece that fits into an existing flight schedule.
The Benefits of Booking an Empty Leg
The most obvious benefit is the cost. Travelers can typically save between 30% to 75% compared to the standard price of chartering the same aircraft. This makes private travel accessible for trips you might have otherwise taken commercially.
But a lower price doesn’t mean a lower standard of service. Even though they are discounted, these flights keep the same high standards as full-price private jet charters. You’ll enjoy the same level of luxury, safety, and personalized attention you’d expect from a premium service like the TrueSkies Reserve program. From the professional crew to the pristine cabin, the experience is uncompromised.
How to Find Empty Leg Flights
Finding a repositioning flight used to feel like uncovering a hidden secret in the private aviation world. Today, it’s much more straightforward if you know where to look. Securing these flights comes down to a combination of using the right tools, staying informed, and working with experts who have access to a wide network of aircraft. Whether you prefer a hands-on approach or want a dedicated team to handle the search for you, there are several effective ways to find a flight that fits your schedule and destination.
Tap into Private Aviation Networks
The best opportunities are often found through established industry networks. A repositioning flight happens when a private jet needs to fly without passengers to get to its next booked charter or return to its home base. Because operators want to offset the cost of these flights, they offer them at a significant discount. Brokers and operators typically share these availabilities within their professional circles first. By working with a well-connected team, you gain access to this insider information and can act on opportunities before they become widely available to the public.
Use Digital Booking Platforms
For those who prefer to search on their own, several digital platforms and mobile apps now list available repositioning flights. For example, you can find these flights on the XO mobile app (look for "Jet Deals") or on the Current Jet Deals section of the XO website. These tools offer a convenient way to browse routes, dates, and aircraft types at your leisure. While these platforms are user-friendly, they may not always show the full spectrum of available flights, as many of the best deals are secured through direct relationships before they ever get listed online.
Partner with a Charter Broker
Working with a charter broker is the most efficient way to find and book a repositioning flight. A dedicated broker acts as your personal flight consultant, tapping into their global network to find options that match your specific needs. They have access to thousands of private jets around the world and can quickly identify flights that align with your travel plans. A great broker not only finds the flight but also vets the operator, confirms safety ratings, and manages all the logistics. This high-touch approach is central to our On-Demand Charter service, ensuring every detail is handled with precision.
Set Up Custom Flight Alerts
If you have a specific route you fly often, setting up custom alerts is a smart, low-effort strategy. Many platforms and brokers offer a notification service for your preferred travel routes. You can sign up for empty leg notifications to receive an email or text the moment a matching flight becomes available. This proactive approach lets you be among the first to know about a potential deal. Members of exclusive programs, like TrueSkies Reserve, often receive priority access to these opportunities, giving them an even greater advantage in securing the best flights.
Breaking Down the Costs and Savings
One of the biggest draws of repositioning flights is the price tag. Because the operator’s goal is simply to move the aircraft, they’re often willing to offer the flight at a deep discount to recoup some of their operational costs. This creates a fantastic opportunity for flexible travelers to experience the benefits of private aviation for a fraction of the typical price. But what does that look like in practice? Let’s get into the numbers and the nuances you should know.
How Much Can You Really Save?
The savings on an empty leg flight can be substantial. Travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 30% to 75% less than the cost of a standard private jet charter. For a flight that might typically cost $20,000, you could potentially book it for as little as $5,000. This discount makes private travel much more accessible, whether you’re planning a special trip or simply want a more efficient way to travel. These significant savings are possible because the primary cost of the flight has already been covered by the original charter client.
The Role of Memberships
While many empty leg flights are available to the public, some programs offer members an advantage. For example, being part of a membership or client program can give you first access to these deals before they’re widely advertised. At TrueSkies, our TrueSkies Reserve program is built around providing a higher standard of service and transparency, ensuring our clients always have access to the best solutions for their travel needs. This kind of priority access can be the key to securing the most desirable routes and aircraft at the best prices.
What Are the Additional Fees?
While the base price of an empty leg is low, it’s important to ask about any additional fees. Costs like landing fees, federal excise tax, and segment fees are standard in private aviation and may not be included in the initial quote. You should also clarify what’s included onboard, as catering and other amenities might come at an extra cost. Beyond money, there are other certain caveats to consider. The biggest is the risk of cancellation; if the original flight that created the empty leg is changed or canceled, your flight will be canceled, too.
Empty Leg vs. On-Demand Charter: A Cost Comparison
When you compare an empty leg directly to a standard charter, the prices are almost always lower. However, you’re trading flexibility for cost savings. Empty leg flights are one-way trips with a fixed destination and a specific travel window. In contrast, a traditional on-demand charter is built entirely around your schedule, itinerary, and preferences. If your plans are firm and require specific departure times or a round-trip itinerary, an on-demand charter provides the control and reliability you need. An empty leg works best when your schedule has some wiggle room.
What to Know Before You Book
Empty leg flights offer an incredible opportunity to experience private aviation at a fraction of the typical cost, but they come with a unique set of rules. Unlike a standard charter where you dictate the schedule, aircraft, and route, booking an empty leg means fitting into a pre-existing plan. Think of it as finding a puzzle piece that perfectly matches your travel needs.
The key is to go in with your eyes open, understanding the trade-offs between cost and convenience. Being prepared for the nuances of these flights ensures you can take full advantage of the savings without any last-minute surprises. From scheduling to logistics, here’s what you need to consider before you commit.
Why Flexibility is Key
The single most important trait for an empty leg traveler is flexibility. These flights operate on a fixed schedule, with a specific aircraft assigned to a predetermined route. You won’t be choosing the departure time or destination—you’ll be seizing an opportunity that already exists. Often, the final details are only confirmed a few days before takeoff.
It’s also important to remember that empty leg flights are almost always one-way trips. They are designed to get an aircraft from Point A to Point B, so you will need to arrange your return journey separately. If your schedule is rigid, a traditional on-demand charter that is built around your specific needs will always be the better option.
Understand the Cancellation Policy
This is a big one: an empty leg flight only exists because of another flight. If the original, full-price charter is changed or canceled by the primary client, your empty leg trip will be canceled, too. This can happen with very little notice, leaving you to find an alternative at the last minute.
Because of this dependency, cancellation policies for empty leg flights are typically very strict. Before booking, make sure you read the fine print and understand the terms. It’s wise to have a backup travel plan in place, just in case. This is where working with a trusted broker can provide peace of mind, as they can help you quickly find another option if needed.
Plan for Weather and Operational Changes
Just like any flight, empty leg trips are subject to changes from weather, air traffic control, or other operational factors. However, because the schedule is already set, there is less room to adjust for delays. The flight needs to get to its destination to be in position for its next mission, so your itinerary is tied to that larger operational picture.
These flights often become available on very short notice, which makes them perfect for spontaneous travelers who can pack a bag and go. If you have the freedom to make last-minute plans and can adapt to potential changes, you’re the ideal candidate to take advantage of these repositioning flights.
Confirm Airport and Logistical Details
Once you find a potential empty leg flight, it’s crucial to confirm all the logistical details. Pay close attention to the specific airports for departure and arrival, as private aircraft often use smaller, more convenient executive airports rather than large international hubs. Double-check the departure time and make sure you understand the baggage allowance for that particular aircraft.
A reliable charter provider will make this process seamless. They should provide a clear itinerary and be available to answer any questions about ground transportation or other arrangements. When you’re ready to explore your options, you can request a quote to have an expert help you sort through the details and find the right fit.
Common Myths About Empty Leg Flights
The idea of booking a private jet at a significant discount can sound too good to be true, which has led to a few persistent myths about empty leg flights. When you understand how they really work, you can see them for what they are: a fantastic opportunity for flexible travelers. Let’s clear up some of the most common misconceptions so you can decide if an empty leg flight is the right fit for your next trip.
Myth #1: They're Impossible to Find
Many people assume that because these flights are such a great deal, they’re incredibly rare or hidden from the public. The truth is, you just need to know where to look. While you might not find them on a commercial travel site, they are readily available within private aviation networks. The key is working with a partner who has broad visibility across the market. A dedicated charter broker can tap into a vast inventory of available aircraft, giving you access to repositioning flights you’d never find on your own. By partnering with an expert, you can easily find flights that match your travel needs without spending hours searching.
Myth #2: You Can't Book a Return Trip
This one is less of a myth and more of a reality that needs a simple planning adjustment. Empty leg flights are inherently one-way because they are designed to move an aircraft to its next destination for a scheduled charter. So, you won't find a round-trip empty leg itinerary. However, that doesn't mean you're stranded. The most straightforward solution is to book your empty leg for one direction and then arrange a standard on-demand charter for your return journey. This hybrid approach allows you to take advantage of the savings for half of your trip while still having a guaranteed, convenient flight home on your schedule.
Myth #3: The Service Quality is Lower
It’s easy to think that a lower price means a lesser experience, but that’s simply not the case with empty leg flights. You are booking the exact same aircraft, with the same professional crew and high-end amenities, that the full-paying client used just before you. The discount is a matter of logistics and efficiency for the operator, not a reflection of the service quality. You still get the entire private jet to yourself and can expect the same standards of safety, comfort, and discretion. At TrueSkies, our commitment to a high-touch approach applies to every flight we arrange, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience regardless of how you book.
Myth #4: They're Too Unreliable
The main trade-off for the exceptional value of an empty leg is flexibility. Because your flight is dependent on someone else’s primary trip, it is subject to changes. If the original client alters their schedule or cancels, your empty leg flight will be affected as well. This requires you to be adaptable. However, “unreliable” isn’t the right word. It’s more accurate to say they carry a higher potential for change. This is where having a trusted partner is invaluable. If your flight is canceled, we can immediately work to find you an alternative. For travelers who need guaranteed availability, our TrueSkies Reserve program offers a more structured and dependable solution.
How to Make a Smart Booking Decision
Finding a great deal on a repositioning flight feels like a win, but the lowest price isn't always the best value. A smart booking decision goes beyond the initial quote to consider the operator's safety record, the transparency of the costs, and the reliability of the service. The goal is to secure a flight that not only fits your budget but also meets your standards for safety and efficiency. Think of it as an investment in your time—the real value comes from a seamless, stress-free experience from booking to landing.
When you partner with an expert, you gain an advocate who vets every detail on your behalf. They ensure the aircraft is right for your mission, the crew is experienced, and there are no hidden fees waiting for you after the flight. This level of diligence separates a simple transaction from a true aviation solution. It’s about ensuring that the convenience and luxury you expect from private aviation are never compromised, even when you’re capitalizing on a one-way opportunity. Making a smart choice means you can relax and enjoy the journey, confident that every aspect of your trip has been handled with precision and care.
Choose the Right Booking Platform
The first step is deciding where to look. You can work with a digital platform, a charter broker, or directly with an operator. Many online platforms function as brokers, meaning they connect you with private jets but don't own or operate the aircraft themselves. While these sites offer a wide selection, they can vary greatly in their vetting processes and service levels. A dedicated charter partner, on the other hand, provides a more high-touch approach, guiding you through the options and ensuring every detail aligns with your expectations. This relationship-based model prioritizes your specific needs over simply filling a seat.
Always Verify Operator Safety
Regardless of how you find the flight, the safety of the aircraft and operator is non-negotiable. Your broker or booking platform should provide a detailed safety report for the operator, including their ARGUS or Wyvern rating. These third-party audits are the gold standard in private aviation safety. Don't hesitate to ask for this information; a reputable provider will be transparent and forthcoming with these details. Remember, the company you book with may simply be arranging the flight, so it's critical to confirm the credentials of the actual operator responsible for your safety in the air.
Plan Your Route Strategically
Repositioning flights are almost always one-way trips, created when an aircraft needs to move for its next chartered flight. This means you'll need to arrange your return journey separately. Before you book a compelling one-way deal, make sure you have a solid plan for getting back. This could involve booking another repositioning flight, chartering a flight on-demand, or even flying commercially. A good broker can help you weigh the options and create a complete itinerary that makes sense for your schedule and budget. You can even request a quote that outlines different possibilities for your round trip.
Get the Most Value from Your Flight
While you can save significantly on a one-way flight—often between 30% and 75%—true value is about more than just the price tag. Look for clear, all-inclusive pricing that covers taxes, landing fees, and other potential charges. A great deal can quickly sour if you’re hit with unexpected costs later. Value also means getting the right aircraft for your needs and receiving the level of service you expect. A knowledgeable partner will ensure the flight you book delivers on all fronts, providing a premium experience that reflects the smart investment you’ve made.
Build Relationships with Your Broker
Working with a trusted aviation advisor can transform your experience. When you build a relationship with a broker, they get to know your travel patterns, aircraft preferences, and service expectations. This allows them to proactively search for opportunities that are a perfect fit for you. Programs like TrueSkies Reserve are built on this principle, offering a dedicated point of contact who understands your needs. Instead of constantly searching for deals, you have an expert in your corner who brings the best options directly to you, saving you time and effort.
Don't Compromise on Safety and Service
The incredible value of an empty leg flight should never come at the expense of safety or service. While the price is different, the standards for a secure and professional flight experience remain the same. Knowing what to look for ensures your trip is not only cost-effective but also meets the highest industry benchmarks for private aviation. A great deal is only great when it’s backed by an unwavering commitment to safety.
Vetting the Aircraft and Operator
Before you book, it’s essential to verify the operator’s safety credentials. Reputable operators are vetted by third-party auditors like ARGUS and Wyvern, which award ratings based on rigorous safety and operational standards. Don’t hesitate to ask your broker or the operator for their safety rating. This simple step provides peace of mind and confirms you’re flying with a provider who prioritizes a culture of safety above all else. It’s a clear, objective measure of their commitment to excellence.
Confirming Insurance Coverage
Adequate insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of a safe flight operation. A trustworthy operator will carry significant liability coverage, often a minimum of $50 million for most private jets. Asking to confirm the operator's insurance coverage is a standard and responsible part of the booking process. It’s a clear indicator of the operator’s financial stability and commitment to protecting their passengers, crew, and assets. This isn't just a formality; it's a fundamental component of responsible aviation.
What Service Standards to Expect
An empty leg flight should still feel like a private jet experience. This means the aircraft should be clean, the amenities should be in order, and the crew should be professional. A key standard to look for is a two-pilot crew, with both pilots holding an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) rating—the highest level of aircraft pilot certification. This ensures your flight is managed by experienced and highly qualified professionals from takeoff to landing, providing the expertise necessary for any situation.
The Importance of a Rigorous Vetting Process
A trusted charter partner does this homework for you. A core part of our on-demand charter service involves a meticulous vetting process for every flight we arrange. We verify operator credentials, audit safety histories, and confirm insurance coverage to ensure every aircraft and crew meets our stringent standards. This behind-the-scenes diligence is what allows you to step aboard with complete confidence, knowing every detail has been managed with your safety as the top priority.
Pro Tips for Your First Empty Leg Flight
Booking your first repositioning flight is an excellent way to experience the world of private aviation at a fraction of the typical cost. These flights offer incredible value, but their unique nature means they come with a few quirks. With a little preparation, you can make sure your first experience is seamless and successful. Think of it less as a transaction and more as a strategic travel decision. By keeping a few key principles in mind, you can confidently secure a great deal without sacrificing peace of mind. Here are four practical tips to help you get started.
Search Smarter, Not Harder
Repositioning flights happen when a private jet needs to fly without passengers to get to its next booked charter or return to its home base. Because the aircraft would otherwise be flying without generating revenue, these one-way trips are offered at a significant discount. Instead of spending hours scrolling through public listings, the smartest approach is to partner with a trusted aviation advisor. A dedicated broker has access to a wide network of operators and can alert you to opportunities that match your specific travel needs, saving you valuable time and effort.
Know When and How to Negotiate
Securing a repositioning flight can save you a substantial amount compared to a standard private jet charter. While the pricing is already attractive, there can sometimes be room for discussion, especially if your travel dates are flexible or the flight is departing soon. The key is to understand the operator's position—they are looking to offset fuel and operational costs. A good broker can help you understand the market rate and present a reasonable offer. Being prepared to request a quote and confirm quickly will always give you an advantage.
Always Have a Backup Plan
The most important thing to understand about repositioning flights is their dependency on the primary charter. If the original flight is canceled or significantly changed, your flight will also be canceled, and you'll need to make other plans quickly. This is where flexibility is non-negotiable. Always have an alternative travel plan in mind, whether it's a commercial flight or a different charter option. For travelers who require guaranteed availability, a program like TrueSkies Reserve provides a more predictable and reliable solution for their travel needs.
Think Beyond a Single Trip
Repositioning flights are almost always for one-way trips, so you'll need to arrange your return journey separately. This isn't a drawback, just a logistical point to factor into your planning. Many savvy travelers use this to their advantage by pairing a one-way repositioning flight with a standard on-demand charter for the return leg. This hybrid approach allows you to balance significant cost savings on one part of your journey with the full flexibility and convenience of a traditional charter on the other, creating a travel itinerary that is both efficient and economical.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the trade-off for the lower price on a repositioning flight? The main trade-off is flexibility. These flights have a fixed schedule, route, and aircraft because they are designed to move a jet for another client's trip. You can't change the departure time or destination. This works perfectly if your own schedule has some room to move, but if you need to be in a specific place at a specific time, a traditional on-demand charter is the more reliable choice.
What happens if my repositioning flight is canceled? Because your flight is dependent on another charter, it will be canceled if the original client changes their plans. This is the most important factor to consider. While it doesn't happen often, it is a possibility, sometimes with very little notice. This is why it’s essential to have a backup plan in mind or work with a charter partner who can quickly find you an alternative solution.
Is the service or aircraft quality different on a repositioning flight? Not at all. You receive the exact same high-end aircraft, professional two-pilot crew, and premium experience as the full-fare passenger. The discount is purely a matter of logistics for the aircraft operator, who would rather cover some operational costs than fly a completely unoccupied plane. The standards for safety, luxury, and service are never compromised.
Since these are one-way flights, how should I plan my return trip? This is a great question that highlights the need for a bit of strategic planning. You will need to arrange your return travel separately. Many travelers find a hybrid approach works best: they secure a repositioning flight for one leg of the journey to save on costs and then book a standard on-demand charter for the return. This gives them guaranteed timing and convenience for the trip home.
What's the most effective way to find a repositioning flight that fits my needs? While you can search on public platforms, the most efficient method is to work with a dedicated charter broker. An expert has access to a global network of aircraft and can proactively find options that match your preferred routes. Instead of you doing all the searching, they bring the best opportunities directly to you and handle all the vetting and logistics.
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