Empty Leg Flights Explained: How to Fly Private for a Fraction of the Cost

Imagine stepping onto a private jet—skipping crowded terminals, breezing through a private FBO, and settling into a plush leather seat with personalized catering—all for up to 50% to 75% less than the typical charter rate.

It sounds like an insider secret, but it’s one of private aviation’s best-kept opportunities: Empty Leg Flights.

Whether you’re a seasoned flyer looking for smarter ways to travel or a first-time luxury traveler eager to experience private aviation, empty leg charters offer an incredible opportunity to fly in style without the full-price tag. Here is everything you need to know about how empty leg flights work and how you can take advantage of them with BJETS.

What Is an Empty Leg Flight?

In the private jet charter industry, aircraft are constantly moving to meet client schedules. An empty leg flight (also known as a repositioning flight or ferry flight) occurs when a private jet needs to fly empty to its next destination.

For example:

1. A client charters a BJETS flight from New York to Miami one-way.

2. The aircraft is scheduled for another booked trip departing from Atlanta two days later.

3. To get to its next assignment, the jet must fly empty from Miami to Atlanta.

Rather than flying completely empty, operators offer these one-way repositioning legs to savvy travelers at deep discounts. Because the aircraft is already committed to making the trip, charter companies can pass significant savings directly on to you.

The Big Benefits of Flying Empty Leg

1. Significant Cost Savings

The primary appeal of an empty leg flight is price. You get the exact same luxury aircraft, private terminal access, and world-class service as a full-fare charter, but at a fraction of the cost.

2. The Uncompromised Private Jet Experience

Discounted doesn't mean compromised. On an empty leg flight with BJETS, you still enjoy:

• Access to private FBO terminals (board in 15 minutes, zero long lines)

• Complete privacy and spacious cabin comfort

• Tailored in-flight amenities and catering

• Dedicated service from safety-vetted flight crews

3. Economical for Groups

Because private jet charters are priced by the aircraft—not per seat—an empty leg flight shared among family, friends, or executive colleagues can sometimes rival the cost of commercial first-class tickets while delivering a vastly superior travel experience.

Is an Empty Leg Flight Right for You?

While empty legs offer incredible value, they operate differently than traditional on-demand charters. They are best suited for travelers who bring a bit of flexibility to their itinerary.

Empty leg flights are ideal for:

• Spontaneous Getaways: Perfect for leisure travelers who can pack a bag on short notice for a weekend in Aspen, Cabo, or Las Vegas.

• One-Way Travelers: Great for relocations, extended vacations, or travelers matching a one-way cruise or road trip schedule.

• Flexible Schedules: Ideal if your departure time or exact surrounding airport (e.g., flying into Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami) has some wiggle room.

Key Things to Keep in Mind Before You Book

To make the most of empty leg opportunities, keep these insider tips in mind:

• Fixed Routing & Schedules: Empty leg flights have predetermined departure points and destinations based on the primary charter’s itinerary.

• Dependent on Primary Flights: If the original passenger changes or cancels their primary charter, the empty leg flight schedule may shift or be canceled. Having a backup plan or working with an experienced aviation broker is essential.

• One-Way Travel: Empty legs are strictly one-way trips. You will need to arrange a separate return flight—or book another empty leg for your journey back!

How to Book Your Next Empty Leg Flight with BJETS

Navigating empty leg inventory requires access to real-time aircraft positioning across global networks. At BJETS, our aviation advisors monitor thousands of safety-vetted aircraft across all cabin classes—from light jets to ultra-long-range aircraft like Gulfstream and Global 7500 models—to match you with open repositioning routes.

How to get started:

1. Connect with a BJETS Aviation Advisor: Let us know your preferred travel routes and general availability.

2. Stay Flexible: Be open to nearby secondary airports or a window of a day or two for departure.

3. Act Quickly: Empty leg flights are highly sought-after and often book quickly once listed.

Experience Private Flying with BJETS

Whether you’re looking to lock in a custom on-demand charter or snag an incredible deal on an empty leg flight, BJETS provides unmatched flexibility, safety, and personalized service tailored entirely to your journey.

Ready to see what empty leg flights are available?

Contact a dedicated BJETS Aviation Advisor today or request a quote to discover how seamlessly—and affordably—you can elevate your next trip.