Flying private can be considered the most comfortable, efficient and stress-free way of traveling. But we agree that it often comes at a considerably higher cost than making the same trip using commercial air travel.

For frequent private jet flyers, time is money, and the time saved by flying private usually justifies the higher charter cost. However, for many, cost remains an important factor when it comes to making travel plans and deciding on the most convenient way of transport.

Luckily, there is a way to reduce the cost of flying private: enter the world of ‘empty legs’ or ‘empty leg flights’ (sometimes also called 'deadhead'). Empty leg flights allow you to enjoy all the same perks, at a fraction of the usual cost!

Tip: Did you know you can also search for available empty leg flights using the price calculator on our website?

In private aviation, not every flight is a round-trip - and that opens up some interesting opportunities.

Let’s say we have a client flying from Brussels to Nice on a one-way trip. The jet needs to get back to Brussels after the drop-off, but it’s flying empty. That return flight? That’s what we call an empty leg - a repositioning flight without any passengers onboard. And that’s where you might come in.

Here’s a real-world example:

A client books a last-minute flight from Antwerp to Zurich. The jet is based in Liège, so it first flies empty to pick them up. That short hop from Liège to Antwerp is already an empty leg. And if the client doesn’t book a return yet, the jet will head back from Zurich to Liège without passengers, another empty leg, but this time a longer and more interesting opportunity for someone flying in that same direction on the same day.

These flights happen all the time. Jets are constantly moving around Europe and beyond to reposition for their next mission, and when they do, that flight is often available at a significantly reduced price, if your schedule lines up.

An empty leg is a win-win. The aircraft owner offsets some of the repositioning cost, and you get to fly private for less.

Let’s start with the most obvious perk: the price. Empty leg flights are typically offered at a significantly reduced rate, often 30% to 50% off the standard charter price. In some cases, you might even score savings of up to 75%.

That’s because the aircraft is already scheduled to make the flight, with or without passengers. So for the operator, offering the empty leg at a discount is a way to recover part of the cost. And for you, it’s a chance to fly private without paying the full fare.

But it’s not just about price. You still get the full private jet experience:

• A quiet cabin all to yourself (or your group)

• Flexibility at smaller airports

• Quick boarding and no long security lines

• Personalized service from start to finish
  
  

If your schedule is flexible and you’re open to a bit of spontaneity, empty legs are a great way to enjoy private aviation without the usual price tag. They’re also ideal for last-minute getaways, surprise trips, or even a more affordable way to return home after a one-way flight.

Empty legs are great - but they’re not for every trip. The main thing to keep in mind? Flexibility is key.

These flights exist because of another passenger’s schedule. That means the departure time, routing, or even the flight itself can change if the original booking changes. If their plans shift, yours might too. For example:

• If the original client delays their flight, your empty leg might be delayed as well.

• If they cancel, your empty leg is likely to be cancelled too.

• If their destination changes, your departure or arrival airport might shift accordingly.
  
  

That’s why we always recommend empty legs for travelers who are a bit more flexible. If you absolutely need to be somewhere at a specific time - for a meeting, connection or event - a standard private charter might be the better option.

That said, there’s sometimes a little wiggle room. On return flights (when the aircraft is heading back to base), there may be a chance to adjust the destination airport slightly if it helps both sides. It’s always worth asking - and that’s where our team comes in to explore the options for you.

Empty leg flights aren’t always widely advertised, but they’re happening constantly. Jets are repositioning all over Europe and beyond every single day. So how do you find one that fits your plans?

There are two simple ways:

• Use our price calculator: Our online tool now lets you search for empty leg flights directly. Just enter your route and travel window - if there’s a matching empty leg, it’ll show up. You may also see similar routings heading in the same direction but to and/or from different (nearby) airports.

• Get in touch with our team: Simply let us know your route, preferred dates and flexibility, and we’ll check the latest availability. If we spot a match (even a partial one) we’ll let you know right away. Sometimes, flights aren’t publicly listed yet, but we know they’re coming up, or we can combine them with one of our own client trips.
  
  

And what if there’s no perfect match right now? We’ll keep you on our radar and let you know if something pops up later. You’d be surprised how often these last-minute opportunities align when you least expect them!

Empty leg flights are one of private aviation’s best-kept secrets. They offer a smart way to enjoy the luxury and ease of private jet travel, often at a fraction of the cost - if you’re willing to be a bit flexible.

At The Aviation Factory, we’ve been helping clients find these hidden gems for over 25 years. Whether you’re planning ahead or open to a spontaneous trip, our team is here to help you spot the right opportunity!

Tip: Did you know you can also search for available empty leg flights using the price calculator on our website?

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