Glossary
Empty Leg
Why it matters
Why empty leg matters
Empty legs are the main way to find private flying at a lower price, but they come with fixed routes and times that can change or cancel, so they reward flexibility.
Cost
How it affects cost
Because the operator would fly the leg anyway, empty legs are offered below standard charter pricing. The savings vary widely and depend on the operator's need and the route.
Example
A quick example
Related terms
Other terms to know
Common questions
Are empty legs guaranteed?
No. They depend on the original trip that created the repositioning need and can change or cancel, which is why they suit flexible travel.
How much do empty legs save?
It varies by operator and route. Estimate the standard charter cost and apply a realistic discount rather than assuming a fixed percentage.
Guides that explain this
- Empty Leg vs Standard CharterWhat empty leg flights are, how their discounts work, and the schedule and route flexibility you need to make them a smart alternative to standard charter.
- Private Jet Repositioning FeesWhat repositioning fees are, why one way trips and remote airports trigger them, and how to plan routing to keep empty flying off your bill.
Calculators that use this
Last reviewed June 2026. Estimates use planning assumptions that we revisit periodically.