Definition
An empty leg is a repositioning flight an aircraft must operate with no paying passengers — typically after a one-way charter or before a scheduled pickup.
Why they exist
Private jets rarely live at the airport closest to their next client. After dropping off a client in Nice, an aircraft may need to fly back to its home base in Geneva. Operators sell that empty positioning leg at a deep discount rather than burn money flying it empty.
Savings potential
Discounts range from 30% to 70% off standard charter pricing. A £45,000 London → Ibiza leg may surface as a £15,000 empty leg.
Risks and flexibility
- —Dates and times are fixed by the operator
- —Routes can change or be cancelled if the original charter changes
- —Aircraft type is non-negotiable
- —Backup commercial booking is wise for time-critical trips
How to book
Subscribe to broker alerts, define your preferred routes, and act fast — quality empty legs are released and sold within hours. Limitless Sky publishes its live empty-leg board daily.
Best routes for empty legs
- —London ↔ Nice / Cannes
- —Geneva ↔ Ibiza
- —Milan ↔ Olbia
- —New York ↔ Miami / Aspen
- —Dubai ↔ Maldives
Common myths
Empty legs are not inferior aircraft, nor are they shared with strangers. You charter the whole aircraft — it is simply the operator's repositioning flight.
FAQ
Frequently asked
Can I change the route of an empty leg?
Sometimes by a small amount (a nearby airport) — but the broad routing is fixed by the operator's repositioning need.
Are empty legs safe?
Identical aircraft, crews and safety standards as standard charter. The discount is purely commercial.
How do I get a private jet quote?
Send your route, dates and party size via the Limitless Sky contact form. A confirmed all-inclusive quote is returned within 10 minutes, 24/7.