FAQ
Empty Leg Flights FAQ
What empty legs are, why they are discounted, whether routes can change, passenger limits, and how safety compares to standard private charter.
Quick context
Empty legs (repositioning flights) are operator-scheduled sectors that would otherwise fly without passengers. EmptyJet lists these offers so you can compare routes, aircraft, and prices in one place. Value scores compare listed prices with estimated charter market rates. The flight is operated by the charter operator under their terms.
Questions
What are empty leg flights?
Empty legs — also called repositioning flights — happen when a private jet must fly without passengers to reach its next charter departure.
- Operators often discount these sectors because an empty flight generates no revenue.
- Routes and times follow the operator’s schedule.
- On EmptyJet, observed discounts versus estimated one-way charter rates commonly fall in the 30–75% band for comparable aircraft and routes.
Can I change the route of an empty leg?
Empty legs have fixed routes set by repositioning needs.
- Some operators allow minor deviations — typically within roughly 100–200 km — for an additional fee.
- Major route changes usually require a full charter at standard rates.
Submit a booking request or contact EmptyJet Concierge to discuss options with the operator.
How many passengers can fly?
Capacity depends on aircraft type. Each EmptyJet listing shows the aircraft model and maximum passengers.
- Light jets — typically 4–8 passengers
- Midsize jets — typically 6–10 passengers
- Heavy jets — typically 10–16 passengers
Amenities and baggage capacity vary by operator and jet class — see the aircraft encyclopedia for model context.
Is it safe to book empty legs?
Empty legs operate under the same aviation safety regulations as standard charter — certified crews, maintained aircraft, and required insurance.
- EmptyJet coordinates with operators linked to live inventory.
- Availability is confirmed before charter terms are finalized.
- The flight is operated by the charter operator under their terms and aviation approvals.