Are empty legs always cheaper than a charter?

Often, but not always. An empty leg can be priced lower because the aircraft has to make the flight anyway, but the final price still depends on the aircraft, the route and the date. Your advisor can compare the empty-leg price with a full charter so you can see the difference.

Can the departure time of an empty leg change?

Yes. Because the flight exists for the aircraft's own schedule, its timing can move, and it can be cancelled if the original trip changes. The charter agreement explains what happens in that case, which is why empty legs suit travellers with some flexibility.

Can I book a return flight on an empty leg?

Only if another empty leg happens to match your return route and date, which cannot be planned in advance. Most travellers who fly out on an empty leg book the return separately, as a charter or on a scheduled flight, and your advisor can arrange either.

Empty leg flights, explained

An empty leg is a private flight an aircraft has to make without passengers. When its route and timing suit you, it can be a more affordable way to fly privately.

What is an empty leg flight?

An empty leg, also called an empty sector or repositioning flight, happens when an aircraft has to fly without passengers: to return to base after a one-way charter, or to reach the airport where its next trip begins. Operators often prefer to sell that seat capacity rather than fly empty, so the price can be lower than a full charter on the same route.

Who it is for

Travellers with flexible dates and departure times.
One-way trips where a return flight is not needed straight away.
Last-minute plans on routes where aircraft often reposition.

How it works

Share route and flexibility — Tell your advisor where you want to go and how flexible you can be on the day and the time.
Check current options — Your advisor looks for empty legs that match your route and timing.
Decide quickly — Empty legs come and go as aircraft schedules change, so a match usually needs a fast decision.
Keep a plan B — If no empty leg fits, your advisor can quote a full charter for comparison.

Good to know

The route and timing follow the aircraft's schedule, not yours.
An empty leg can be retimed or cancelled if the aircraft is chartered for its original trip; the conditions are in the charter agreement.
The price covers the aircraft for that leg only; a return flight is booked separately.

Questions clients ask

Are empty legs always cheaper than a charter? — Often, but not always. An empty leg can be priced lower because the aircraft has to make the flight anyway, but the final price still depends on the aircraft, the route and the date. Your advisor can compare the empty-leg price with a full charter so you can see the difference.
Can the departure time of an empty leg change? — Yes. Because the flight exists for the aircraft's own schedule, its timing can move, and it can be cancelled if the original trip changes. The charter agreement explains what happens in that case, which is why empty legs suit travellers with some flexibility.
Can I book a return flight on an empty leg? — Only if another empty leg happens to match your return route and date, which cannot be planned in advance. Most travellers who fly out on an empty leg book the return separately, as a charter or on a scheduled flight, and your advisor can arrange either.