The Benefits of Booking Empty Leg Jets

Take a moment to think about your last commercial travel experience. How pleasant was it getting through the airport and onto the plane? How long did you have to wait? How much of that time was wasted? Once you boarded, were you comfortable? Could you carry on a private conversation and know that it was kept private? Did you enjoy your favorite snacks and refreshments? Did you have any layovers? As different as every traveler’s experience is, they are all very similar when it comes to commercial travel. 

If you are looking for a different experience, book a private jet charter. 

Unfortunately, most people shy away from even considering private travel due to its price tag. But, traveling via a charter jet does not have to break the bank. In fact, more and more travelers are finding that they can enjoy private travel at a much more affordable rate when they travel via empty leg jets.  

So what is it? And what are the benefits of empty leg travel? You reap the same benefits on an empty leg private jet booking that you would with a regular booking. Let’s talk about it. 

What is an Empty Leg Flight? 

An empty leg flight is one that involves a jet heading back to its home base – or to another destination to pick up passengers for a scheduled flight. It makes this flight without anyone on board, hence empty leg. 

Let’s say someone booked a private jet charter from Van Nuys airport to Chicago. They don’t need a return flight right away so the jet plans to head back to home base in Los Angeles. This means anyone who is in Chicago and looking to head to LA can easily do so on an empty leg flight. After all, the jet is already heading there, it may as well try to make a little money by bringing passengers along. 

This makes it more affordable for jets to return – and it makes it more affordable for those looking to travel via a private jet. 

Keep in mind that empty leg flights only travel one way, so if you are returning, you will need to find another flight. 

Benefit #1: Flexibility

Private travel has always been about flexibility. It definitely does not require that you stick to the rigid structure set forth by commercial airliners who rarely follow through with their end of the deal. 

You will have some flexibility when it comes to departing. Though keep in mind the jet has its own schedule to adhere to so it won’t be as flexible as a regular charter. Nonetheless, if you prefer to leave early so that you have more time in the day when you arrive at your destination, you can usually do so – as long as it doesn’t interfere with the future schedules of the jet. 

What’s more, since you are the only passenger, if you find yourself running a little behind schedule, the jet will wait for you. A courtesy call to the charter company is always a great idea just to let everyone know. 

When you are ready, the jet will be, too. 

Benefit #2: No Long Lines or Screening Processes

One thing most commercial travelers hate is the long lines to get through TSA’s security checkpoint. You have to arrive at least two hours ahead of your flight (three, if traveling internationally) so that you can stand in line to check in and check your bags, then stand in line for security, and then wait at your gate until the airline is ready to board. 

It is a long process that is very time-consuming. 

When you travel via an empty leg private jet charter, you don’t have to worry about any of that. There are no long lines or no requirements to arrive hours before your flight. While you will likely still go through security screening, the procedure is much more relaxed – and without the lines. 

You can arrive about 15 to 20 minutes ahead of your flight and rest easy knowing that you will be on it in a breeze. 

Benefit #3: Luxurious Surroundings

When you think of a private jet, the first thing that comes to mind probably has something to do with luxury. So it only makes sense that you will get to enjoy all the luxurious surroundings they have to offer when you take advantage of an empty leg flight. 

The seating is spacious and comfortable. You can use your time onboard to relax, get some work done, watch a movie, and so forth. The best part? You will be so comfortable on your flight that by the time you arrive at your destination, you will be rejuvenated and ready to go. 

Benefit #4: Privacy

There is no privacy when you travel on a commercial airliner. But when you travel on a private jet, you have nothing but privacy. You can enjoy the flight without any disruptions or without worrying about those around you hearing what you are saying – or even seeing what is on your computer screen. 

Any time spent on a private jet – whether an empty leg or regular booking – gives you the freedom to do what you want or need to do without worrying about other passengers. 

Benefit #5: Monetary Savings

One of the best things about flying on empty leg jets is being able to take advantage of all they have to offer without having to pay full price. Who doesn’t love a deal?

The cost of empty leg flights can vary based on certain factors, such as the type of jet, the demand for the destination, and even the season. Regardless, they are cheaper than flying a regular charter flight. When you have other passengers traveling with you, coming together for an empty leg flight could prove to be even more affordable than for each passenger booking a commercial flight. 

It is time to stop assuming that private jet travel is out of your budget. With empty leg flights, you get a more affordable and luxurious travel experience every time.