An empty leg is a repositioning flight for a private jet that has no passengers. It occurs when an aircraft needs to fly empty to pick up its next paying client or return to base after a one-way trip.

When a true empty leg aligns with your route and timing, savings can be significant—up to 75% off the standard charter cost. These deeply discounted flights offer exceptional value, especially for flexible travelers who can take advantage of last-minute opportunities.

If your route perfectly matches a scheduled empty leg, the cost will generally reflect the hourly rate multiplied by flight time, plus applicable taxes and fees. These direct matches are rare, mostly occurring on high-traffic routes like Van Nuys to Teterboro.

Not necessarily. While empty legs can offer major discounts, operating a private jet comes with high fixed costs—crew, fuel, handling, and maintenance. Operators aim to recover these direct operating costs and, ideally, generate revenue.

Usually, no. Empty leg flights are pre-scheduled and tied to another customer’s itinerary. Some flexibility may be possible, but it's limited.

You can contact Joyride Aviation directly to check current availability. Many empty legs are not publicly listed, and we can source exclusive opportunities through our operator network.

Yes. As long as the total number of passengers doesn’t exceed the aircraft’s seating capacity, you’re welcome to bring guests—just like a standard charter.

Because empty legs are tied to repositioning schedules, they are more likely to be changed or canceled than regular charters. If this happens, we’ll notify you immediately and offer alternative options whenever possible.

Empty legs are typically one-way only. While it’s rare to find matching round trips, our team can combine options or arrange a standard charter for your return.