Some opportunities reveal themselves only to those who know where to look. Empty leg flights offer exactly that, a gateway to private aviation that combines exceptional value with the full luxury experience.
If you’ve been considering private flight, or if you already fly private and want to optimize your travel, understanding empty legs opens new possibilities. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Empty Leg Flights and How Do They Work?
Empty leg flights are discounted private jet flights that occur when an aircraft needs to reposition without passengers. Rather than waste that flight, operators make it available at a reduced rate. That’s an empty leg.
The aircraft is moving regardless. You simply have the opportunity to be on board when it does.
How it works:
A client books a jet from Calgary to Vancouver. After landing, the aircraft needs to return to Calgary. That return flight becomes available as an empty leg—same aircraft, same service, at a significantly reduced cost compared to a standard charter.
The route and timing are fixed, determined by the aircraft’s schedule. If they align with your plans, you board a fully appointed private jet at an exclusive price.
Why Should You Book an Empty Leg Flight?
The value is substantial
Empty leg pricing offers a significant reduction in cost compared to standard charter rates, while providing the same level of service and experience. The only difference is timing—the aircraft’s schedule, not yours, sets departure.
The experience remains unchanged
Empty leg flights grant you access to the core benefits of private aviation. Private terminals, direct boarding, departure on schedule, spacious cabin configured to your preferences. Whether you’re working, resting, or simply enjoying the flight, nothing is compromised.
Time remains your own
No security lines. No gate delays. No connections. You arrive at the private terminal minutes before departure and land closer to your actual destination. Even at reduced rates, empty legs deliver the efficiency that makes private aviation invaluable.
The Challenges of Booking Empty Leg Flights
Empty legs require flexibility. Understanding what’s fixed and what’s negotiable helps you make the most of these opportunities.
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- Routes are predetermined. The aircraft flies where it needs to go. If your destination aligns, perfect. If not, the next opportunity will.
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- Timing is set. Departure times are fixed around the aircraft’s schedule. They may shift if the primary booking changes or cancelled last minute. Flexibility on your end is essential.
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- Most are one-way. Empty legs typically cover a single direction. Return travel requires separate arrangements.
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- Availability appears quickly. These flights emerge as bookings are confirmed. Sometimes with days of notice, sometimes hours. When the right one appears, move decisively.
- Availability appears quickly. These flights emerge as bookings are confirmed. Sometimes with days of notice, sometimes hours. When the right one appears, move decisively.
Tips for Booking Empty Leg Flights
Subscribe to alerts
Operators like Air Partners send notifications when empty legs become available. You’ll see route, aircraft type, and departure time. If it works, you’re already ahead.
Stay flexible
The more adaptable you are with dates and airports, the more opportunities you’ll find. Consider nearby airports, adjust departure times, remain open to routes you hadn’t considered.
Move quickly
Empty legs don’t wait. When you find the right flight, book it. Others are looking too.
Contact operators directly
If you have a specific route in mind, reach out. Some flights become available before they’re publicly listed. A quick conversation might reveal exactly what you need.
How to Book an Empty Leg Flight with Air Partners by Take Flight Group
Booking with Air Partners by Take Flight Group is simple and easy. Browse our Empty Legs page to see what’s currently available, then reach out to our team directly—by email or phone. From there, our Flight Coordinators handle everything: pricing, details, and securing your seat.
That’s it. No forms to fill out, no back-and-forth. Just one conversation that puts you on board.
