What is an “Empty Leg” (private jet) — and how to use one smartly

An empty leg (sometimes called a repositioning flight or one-way repositioning) is a private jet flight that would otherwise fly empty. That happens when an aircraft has to travel without passengers to pick someone up, return to its base, or reposition between bookings. Rather than fly empty, operators often offer that one-way leg at a deep discount — but with important trade-offs.

Empty legs should NEVER be considered as "scheduled flights". By their nature they tend to be unreliable, and can be cancelled at the 11th hour. Think of them in a similar sense to commercial airline "stand-by" flights - they may, or may not, happen.

Below is a clear, practical guide on how empty legs work, who should consider them, the real benefits, the downsides, and smart tips for booking one.

How an empty leg actually works (step-by-step)

1. A client books a charter for a one-way trip (A → B) or a round trip where the return leg is not needed.

2. The operator must reposition the aircraft (B → A or B → C) empty to meet the next assignment, return to base, or avoid crew duty issues.

3. That repositioning flight becomes an “empty leg” and is often offered at a reduced price to carry passengers instead of flying empty.

4. Operators list empty legs publicly, to brokers, or directly to their clients — but the timing, route, and availability are ALWAYS subject to change.

Who benefits from empty legs?

• Flexible travellers who can accept specific departure times and dates.

• Solo executives or small groups (1–4 people) who want the private jet experience at a reduced cost.

• EAs / PAs and travel managers who can react fast and secure last-minute travel for VIPs.

• Event guests, sponsors, or media teams who need one-way travel to a specific event.

• Price-sensitive buyers who prioritise value over schedule certainty.

• Not ideal for large teams or mission-critical itineraries (e.g., and entire footbal team needing strict timings). Empty legs are best for smaller, flexible parties, usually 1-4 passengers maximum.

Key benefits

• Lower price than an equivalent paid private charter. Savings are often significant — commonly advertised in the industry as anywhere from around 20% to 70% off — though the exact discount varies by route, aircraft, season, and how urgently the operator needs to fill the leg.

• Access to higher-category aircraft you might not normally be able to afford for a whole charter.

• Fast, last-minute availability — if you can move quickly, you can book a jet within hours.

• Reduced waste — you’re occupying a flight that would otherwise be empty, which can be more efficient than leaving the plane to fly empty.

• True private-jet experience (if you book the entire empty leg) — privacy, speed through private terminals, cabin comfort.

Important downsides & risks

• Timing rigidity and last-minute nature. Empty legs are tied to another customer’s booking. Times and even the existence of the flight can change with very little notice.

• Cancellation or re-routing risk. If the original charter is changed or cancelled, the empty leg disappears or moves. You may lose the flight or need to accept a different time/airport.

• Limited routes and availability. Empty legs follow the operator’s repositioning needs — you won’t find an empty leg on every route or for every date.

• Not always fully private (seat-share options). Some platforms sell individual seats on empty legs — lower cost but less privacy. If privacy is essential, confirm you’re booking the whole aircraft. Worth noting that the sale of individual seats on a private jet is quite often illegal, depending on the operator.

• Inconsistent savings for big groups. Discounts are less attractive on larger jets or very long sectors — sometimes the empty leg isn’t proportional savings vs. a tailored charter.

• Contract terms can be strict. Some empty-leg bookings require full payment up front, and cancellation/refund terms can be limited.

• Potential hidden costs. Ground handling fees, repositioning surcharges, taxes, or additional services may not be included in the headline price.

How to find and book empty legs (practical tips)

• Sign up for operator/broker alerts. Operators and brokers email or push notifications when empty legs appear — being on those lists is the fastest way to know about them.

• Work with a good broker or your flight department. They can monitor multiple operators and move quickly to secure the leg. EAs/PAs should set up instant alerts and have payment arrangements ready.

• Be flexible on airports and times. Expanding acceptable times by a few hours or accepting nearby airports dramatically increases useful options.

• Confirm aircraft type and services. Don’t assume all empty legs have the same amenities — check that the listed aircraft matches your expectations (seat configuration, lavatory, Wi-Fi, catering).

• Get full terms in writing. Price, cancellation/refund policy, baggage allowance, passenger count limit, and what happens if the leg changes must be agreed and documented.

• Check credentials. Confirm the operator’s AOC/air operator certificate and insurance, especially if you’re booking through a third party.

Tips to get the best value from an empty leg

• Be prepared to move fast: the best legs are snapped up quickly.

• Consider pairing: book a short paid charter outbound and use an empty leg inbound (or vice versa) to optimise costs.

• Negotiate add-ons: because the operator wants the flight filled, you may be able to negotiate upgrades (catering, ground transfers) or slightly better timing.

• Accept nearby airports: sometimes landing at an alternate airport saves money and time overall.

• Ask about seat options: if you only need a seat rather than the whole aircraft, some platforms offer per-seat rates on empty legs (but not many due to legal reasons).

Useful checklist before you confirm payment

• Exact departure/arrival airports and times (including local timezone).

• Aircraft registration and model.

• Who is the operator and is the operator certified in the relevant jurisdiction?

• Total price (all fees, taxes, ground handling, and transfer costs).

• Payment terms and refund/cancellation policy.

• Baggage and special cargo limits (sports equipment, medical equipment).

• What happens if the original charter changes/cancels?

• Onboard services included (Wi-Fi, catering, meeting/call capability).

• Contact details for last-minute coordination.

Empty legs & sports travel — quick note

For large, schedule-sensitive groups (full teams, extensive equipment), empty legs are usually not reliable enough. But they’re useful for:

• VIPs, sponsors, or media travelling separately to an event.

• Individual athletes or small support staff needing a fast, cheaper one-way transfer between race sites or matches.

• Last-minute seat/aircraft for single executives attending an event when full charter is overkill.

Final thoughts

Empty legs are a powerful tool when flexibility and cost savings matter more than schedule certainty. They give many travellers a way to enjoy true private-jet benefits at a reduced rate — but you need speed, contingency plans, and a clear contract. If you rely on strict timings or have many passengers and equipment, a dedicated charter remains the safer choice.