Empty Legs
What Is an Empty Leg Flight?
By Starr Luxury Jets ·
An empty leg is a private flight that would otherwise fly with no passengers, usually because the aircraft is returning to base or repositioning for its next booking. Because the flight is happening anyway, the seats are offered well below standard charter pricing.
Why empty legs exist
Charter aircraft rarely finish a trip where the next one starts. That gap creates a flight with no passengers, and operators would rather sell it than fly it empty.
What you give up
Empty legs are fixed on route, date and aircraft, and they can be cancelled or retimed if the original paying booking changes. They suit flexible travellers, not fixed appointments.
How to catch one
Live empty leg lists change constantly. Alerts for your preferred routes are more effective than checking manually, because good ones are taken quickly.
When an empty leg is the wrong choice
If the meeting cannot move, book standard charter. The saving is not worth the risk of a retimed or withdrawn flight.
Frequently asked questions
How much cheaper is an empty leg?
Pricing varies, but empty legs are typically offered well below the standard charter rate for the same aircraft and route.
Can an empty leg be cancelled?
Yes. If the original booking changes, the repositioning flight can move or disappear, which is the main trade off.
Can I change the route of an empty leg?
No. The route and timing are set by the aircraft's repositioning need.
How do I hear about empty legs first?
Sign up for alerts on the routes you care about, since availability moves quickly.