How to Save Money on Empty Leg Flights
Introduction
Private jet travel offers unmatched luxury, convenience, and speed, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, there’s a way to experience private aviation without paying full price: empty leg flights. These flights occur when a private jet needs to return to its base or travel to a new location without passengers. Instead of flying empty, jet operators offer these flights at a significantly reduced rate. In this article, we’ll explore how you can save money on empty leg flights, making luxury air travel more accessible.
Empty leg flights are one of the best-kept secrets in the private aviation world. While private jet flights are typically expensive, the cost of an empty leg can be up to 75% less than a regular charter. However, booking these flights requires strategy, flexibility, and a little bit of insider knowledge. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of empty leg flights and learn how you can make the most of them.
What Are Empty Leg Flights?
Empty leg flights occur when a private jet is scheduled to fly without passengers. This happens in several situations, such as when a jet is returning to its base after dropping off passengers or repositioning for another booking. Rather than let the aircraft fly empty, the operator offers these flights at a discounted rate to fill the seat with other travelers.
These flights are sometimes referred to as “deadhead flights” or “repositioning flights.” Because the jet operator wants to avoid the costs associated with an empty leg, they offer these flights at a reduced price, making it an excellent opportunity for travelers looking for an affordable luxury travel experience.
How Do Empty Leg Flights Save You Money?
There’s no denying that private jet travel can be expensive, but empty leg flights offer substantial savings. Depending on the route, the type of aircraft, and the demand, passengers can save anywhere from 40% to 75% off the regular price of a private jet charter. For example, a one-way flight from New York to Miami could cost tens of thousands of dollars if chartered privately, but on an empty leg flight, the same trip could cost only a fraction of that price.
The price reduction occurs because the jet operator still needs to complete the flight, whether or not there are passengers on board. They are offering the empty leg at a discount to help offset some of the operational costs. The key to saving money on empty leg flights lies in knowing how to book them, when to book them, and being flexible with your travel plans.
How to Find and Book Empty Leg Flights
While booking empty leg flights can save you a lot of money, finding them isn’t always straightforward. Jet operators do not always advertise these flights, and their availability depends on various factors. However, there are several ways to track down these discounted flights.
1. Use a Private Jet Charter Broker
Private jet charter brokers act as intermediaries between travelers and jet operators. Many brokers specialize in finding empty leg flights for clients, helping them secure lower prices without the need to directly contact operators. Brokers often have access to exclusive deals and can quickly check multiple operators for available empty leg flights on your desired route.
By working with a charter broker, you can save time and effort finding empty leg flights. In some cases, brokers may even negotiate additional discounts based on your travel preferences and flexibility.
2. Check Online Empty Leg Platforms
Several online platforms aggregate available empty leg flights, making it easier for travelers to find discounted private jet options. Websites like JetSmarter, PrivateFly, and Stratajet allow users to search for empty leg flights based on dates, routes, and aircraft types. These platforms offer a user-friendly interface that shows available flights and their prices, giving you a quick overview of empty leg options.
Some of these platforms also have mobile apps, so you can check for new empty leg deals on the go. Setting up alerts for specific routes or destinations can ensure that you are notified when an empty leg flight becomes available.
3. Contact Private Jet Operators Directly
If you have a preferred private jet operator, consider reaching out to them directly to inquire about empty leg flights. Many operators are willing to offer these flights at a discount to fill their schedules, but they may not always advertise them. By building a relationship with an operator or requesting to be added to their empty leg flight mailing list, you may be able to receive notifications about available flights.
While this approach requires a bit more effort, it can result in access to great deals that may not be advertised publicly.
4. Use Empty Leg Flight Alerts
Some websites and apps allow you to set up alerts for specific routes or aircraft types that you are interested in. By setting up these alerts, you’ll be notified whenever an empty leg flight becomes available on your preferred route. This way, you can act quickly to book the flight before it fills up.
Many empty leg flight platforms have this feature, and it can be a valuable tool for travelers looking to save money and ensure they get the best deal.
Tips for Booking Empty Leg Flights
Booking empty leg flights can save you money, but there are a few important factors to consider when trying to secure the best deals.
1. Flexibility Is Key
Flexibility is perhaps the most important factor when booking empty leg flights. These flights are often only available at certain times, and the routes can be limited. If your travel plans are flexible, you’ll have a much higher chance of finding a great deal.
Empty leg flights are usually one-way, and the exact timing of the flight may not always be convenient. Being open to different departure times or alternative routes will give you more options. Sometimes, you may have to fly at odd hours or take a less direct route, but the savings can make it worth the compromise.
2. Book Early or Last-Minute
There are two ideal times to book empty leg flights. The first is well in advance, as some operators post empty leg flights several days or even weeks ahead of time. If you know your travel dates, you can plan ahead and book your flight early. However, many operators also offer empty leg flights closer to the departure date to fill seats at the last minute.
If you are willing to take the risk of waiting, booking closer to the departure time can often result in a significantly discounted price, as operators want to avoid flying the aircraft empty. However, this strategy works best if you have a flexible schedule and are willing to take a chance.
3. Understand the Terms and Conditions
When booking empty leg flights, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the flight. Empty leg flights are often non-refundable, and changes to the itinerary may not be possible. Make sure you fully understand the policies before booking, especially if there’s any chance your travel plans might change.
Some empty leg flights may also have specific baggage restrictions or other limitations. Always clarify these details with the operator before booking, so you’re not caught off guard.
4. Consider Sharing the Flight
Some private jet operators allow multiple passengers to share an empty leg flight, further reducing the cost. If you’re traveling alone, you may be able to book a seat on an empty leg flight that’s already partially filled. By sharing the flight with others, you can split the cost and make the experience even more affordable.
However, booking shared empty leg flights requires coordination with the operator and other passengers. If you’re traveling with a group or looking for an affordable option, sharing a private jet may be a good choice.
When Not to Book an Empty Leg Flight
While empty leg flights offer incredible savings, they’re not always the best option for everyone. Here are a few situations where booking an empty leg flight may not be ideal:
1. Fixed Travel Dates and Routes
If you have a strict travel schedule or need to travel on specific dates, empty leg flights might not be suitable. These flights are often subject to change and are dependent on the needs of the operator. If your travel dates are inflexible, it’s best to consider other options.
2. Limited Routes
Empty leg flights are only available on certain routes, so if your destination is not popular or does not align with available repositioning flights, you may not find a suitable option. In these cases, you may need to opt for a traditional charter flight.
3. Short Notice Travel
While last-minute empty leg deals can offer great savings, booking at the last minute is not always possible. If you need to book a flight with very little notice, empty leg flights may not be available, and you might have to look for a standard charter flight.
Conclusion
Empty leg flights are an excellent way to save money on private jet travel without sacrificing the luxury experience. By understanding how empty leg flights work, being flexible with your travel plans, and using the right tools to find them, you can enjoy significant savings on your next private jet journey. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, empty leg flights provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the convenience and comfort of private aviation at a fraction of the usual cost. With the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to booking your next private flight at a discounted price.