Discover Affordable Options: Jet for Less with Empty Leg Flights

Think flying private is out of reach? Think again.

Empty leg flights—also known as dead legs, empty sectors, or one-way transients—are one of the best-kept secrets in private aviation. These discounted flights occur when a private jet needs to reposition itself for its next scheduled journey and would otherwise fly empty. The details of an empty leg flight are generally not released until a few days before it is due to depart.

Instead of wasting the trip, many operators list these flights at up to 75% off the regular charter price, making them a smart choice for travelers who can be flexible on timing and location. Unlike a traditional charter flight, where you choose your schedule and destination, empty leg flights are pre-set based on the jet's required repositioning.

At Hoppyn, we specialize in unlocking these cost-saving opportunities. Our platform lets you browse thousands of empty leg flights globally, updated daily, and book them through a transparent, flat-fee membership. Whether you’re new to private aviation or just tired of overpriced charters, we make it easier to fly private without breaking the bank. Hoppyn demonstrates a strong commitment to customer service and safety, ensuring a reliable and high-quality experience for every traveler.

Introduction to Empty Leg Flights

Empty leg flights are a standout opportunity in the world of private aviation, allowing travelers to experience the luxury of a private jet at a fraction of the usual cost. These flights occur when a private jet needs to fly to another destination without any passengers on board—often to pick up its next clients or return to its home base. Rather than letting these aircraft fly empty, operators offer these “empty legs” to savvy travelers at significantly reduced prices.

For those looking to fly private without the hefty price tag, empty leg flights present a cost-effective solution. You get all the benefits of private jet travel—comfort, privacy, and convenience—while saving up to 75% compared to regular charter prices. Known in the aviation industry as deadhead flights, empty sectors, or one-way transients, these flights help optimize aircraft usage and reduce unnecessary waste.

The benefits extend beyond just the passengers. By filling these empty legs, the aviation industry maximizes efficiency, reduces operational costs, and minimizes the environmental impact of flying jets without passengers. For travelers, it’s a win-win: access to luxury travel at a lower cost, with the added convenience of private flying to a variety of destinations. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or new to private aviation, empty leg flights open the door to a smarter, more affordable way to charter a jet.

The Benefits of Flying Private

Cost Savings Without Compromise

Let’s start with the obvious: cost.

Traditional private jet charters typically run $5,000 to $15,000 per hour, depending on the aircraft and route. But with empty leg flights, you’re flying the same aircraft, with the same luxury, for a fraction of the cost—sometimes as much as 75% off.

A $20,000 New York to Miami charter? You could fly it for $4,000 or less as an empty leg. Traveling with a group can lower the per-person cost of chartering a jet, making it comparable to a commercial first-class ticket.

At Hoppyn, we’ve taken it a step further. Instead of paying per flight, our members access all available empty leg flights for a flat annual membership fee. No surprise costs. No per-seat pricing. No hassle.

More Than Just Savings

Flying private means:

• No TSA lines or long security checks

• Access to private terminals (FBOs) for quicker boarding

• Direct routes to smaller airports not served by commercial airlines

• Comfortable, spacious cabins with luxury amenities

• Personalized service from experienced crews

• Flexible baggage rules

With empty leg flights, you get all of that—without the sticker shock.

Better for the Planet, Too

Empty legs are flights that were going to happen anyway. Booking one doesn’t add new carbon emissions—it helps reduce the waste of flying jets empty.

That makes empty leg travel a more sustainable choice than standard charters, particularly for travelers who are conscious of their environmental footprint. Choosing empty legs helps protect the environment by supporting sustainable practices and reducing unnecessary emissions. To further save money and support sustainability, limit extravagant in-flight catering as it can significantly add to the cost of private jet travel.

How Empty Leg Flights Work

A One-Way Flight with Big Perks

An empty leg flight is a repositioning leg flown by a private jet to or from another booking. These flights have:

• A fixed route (set departure and arrival airport)

• A set departure time (can’t be adjusted)

• Limited availability and may change at the last minute

Because of these constraints, they’re not ideal for someone with rigid schedules—but perfect for flexible travelers who want luxury at a lower cost. Some empty leg flights are ideal for regional trips that last just a few hours, making them especially efficient for quick business or personal travel.

Private jet charter services typically offer flexible travel options, allowing clients to arrive just minutes before departure.

Finding Empty Leg Flights

You can find empty legs in several ways:

• Directly through operators (limited listings, inconsistent updates)

• Through brokers (usually add commission fees)

• Via platforms like Hoppyn, which aggregates thousands of flights, updates daily, and offers transparent booking with no middleman fees

When you become a member of Hoppyn, you gain access to an updated board of empty leg flights, complete with route details, aircraft type, and departure windows. Members can access and book empty leg flights directly through the platform, making it easy to secure leg flights directly without any back-and-forth negotiations. You can request a flight directly and start flying private for less—no back-and-forth negotiations required.

Types of Charter Flights (and Why Empty Legs Win)

When searching for ways to jet for less, understanding the different types of private jet arrangements is key. A charter flight can be tailored to your specific needs, whether you want the entire aircraft for yourself or prefer to share the experience with others.

There are three main ways to fly private: booking an entire jet, opting for an empty leg flight, or joining a shared charter. Shared charters allow passengers to book individual seats or split charter costs, spreading expenses among multiple travelers.

Private Jet Flight Options Compared

There are three main ways to fly private, and it's important to know what to expect from each option:

• Chartering a jet

• Buying a jet card

• Owning a jet

Jet cards allow travelers to pre-pay for flight hours or credits, providing guaranteed availability and fixed hourly rates, which helps avoid unpredictable charter costs.

1. Empty Leg Flights

• Best for: Flexible travelers who want a deal

• Pricing: Up to 75% off standard charter

• Limitations: Fixed schedule and destination

• Booking model: First-come, first-served

Empty leg flights operate on pre-determined routes and schedules, managed by private aviation companies to reposition aircraft after a booked charter. These flights are actively scheduled and managed to ensure regulatory compliance and safety.

2. Shared Flights

• Best for: Groups who don’t need the entire plane

• Pricing: Split the cost among passengers

• Limitations: Less privacy, limited availability

• Booking model: Coordinate with other flyers or platforms

Shared flight providers are trusted by many companies, including business organizations and entrepreneurs, for their credibility and experience in serving corporate clients.

Travel during off-peak times, like midweek, can lead to lower charter prices due to increased aircraft availability.

3. Full Charter Flights

• Best for: Travelers with specific timing/routes

• Pricing: Most expensive; $5K–$15K/hour

• Flexibility: High—choose route, time, aircraft

• Booking model: Direct or via broker

A full charter gives you exclusive use of the jet, with total control over your itinerary and privacy. A dedicated team, including support staff and crew, works together to ensure your safety, exceptional service, and smooth operations throughout your journey. Flying from smaller, secondary airports avoids major airport fees and can yield better deals for off-peak travel.

Why Empty Legs Make Sense

For most people, empty-leg flights are the easiest and most affordable entry point into private aviation. You get the experience—without the price tag. And with Hoppyn’s flat-fee membership, you get access without extra booking costs, contracts, or commitments. After enjoying an empty leg, you can easily arrange your next charter, making it simple to continue your private travel seamlessly.

Private jet charter services often provide fair pricing and honest advice to help clients make informed decisions.

Private Jet Charters: The Basics

Private jet charters have become a preferred choice for those seeking flexibility, convenience, and a touch of luxury in their travels. Unlike commercial flights, chartering a private jet allows you to tailor your journey to your specific needs, from selecting the right aircraft to customizing flight details that match your travel preferences.

Owning a private jet comes with significant responsibilities—maintenance, crew salaries, fuel, and insurance can add up quickly. For most travelers, private jet charter offers a more practical alternative, providing access to a wide range of aircraft without the long-term investment and ongoing costs of ownership. By working with a reputable service provider, you can enjoy a seamless experience, with every detail managed for you—from safety checks to in-flight service.

Chartering a private jet means you can reduce flight time, avoid crowded airports, and maximize productivity, all while traveling in comfort and privacy. The right service provider will help you choose the best aircraft for your journey, ensuring safety and efficiency at every step. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, understanding the basics of private jet charters empowers you to make informed decisions and enjoy all the benefits that private aviation has to offer. For travelers who value convenience, safety, and a personalized journey, private jet charter is the ultimate way to fly.

The Rise of Private Jet Memberships

Private jet memberships offer travelers exclusive access to a fleet of jets, flexible booking options, and significant cost savings compared to traditional ownership. Many programs now include a leg program, which strategically matches client preferences with discounted empty leg flights, providing transparency about available routes and aircraft while rewarding flexibility and strategic planning with lower prices.

For very frequent flyers, buying a share of a private jet can also be a cost-effective solution, as it allows sharing of both acquisition and maintenance costs.

Not All Memberships Are Equal

The private jet industry has exploded with “membership” models. Some charge thousands up front and still bill you hourly. Others give you credits or limit access to specific aircraft types.

At Hoppyn, we flipped the model:

• One flat annual fee

• Unlimited access to empty leg flights

• No hidden costs, no seat pricing, no surge pricing

Our flexible approach to travel plans means you can adapt your bookings to fit your schedule, often unlocking significant savings on empty leg flights and creating a tailored experience.

You’re not paying for the aircraft—you’re paying for access. That makes it simple, predictable, and ideal for both first-time and frequent flyers.

Choosing smaller aircraft, like light jets or turboprops, also results in lower fuel consumption, reduced landing fees, and lower operating costs.

Smart Private Jet Travel Tips

Be Flexible

Because empty legs are based on aircraft repositioning, schedules can shift. Have a backup plan, and be open to alternate routes or times within a day or two. The more flexible you are, the better deals you’ll find, especially since increased demand can affect both availability and pricing.

Private jet charter companies often have a network of vetted air carriers to ensure safety and reliability.

Book Fast

Empty legs often disappear quickly—sometimes in hours. Platforms like Hoppyn give you real-time access, so when you see something you like, act fast. For flight details or assistance, contact the provider directly to secure your booking.

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your jet remains safe and functional.

Choose a Reputable Provider

Not all platforms are created equal. Look for:

• Clear pricing

• Safety records of listed operators

• Transparent terms

• Customer support (Hoppyn has live support for members)

• Expertise in the private aviation industry, as providers with extensive knowledge, can offer better guidance and support.

With Hoppyn, you only see vetted aircraft and certified operators, so you know you’re flying safe and secure.

When owning a jet, you will also need a skilled crew, including a pilot and possibly a cabin crew, to ensure safe and comfortable flights.

Don’t Forget Additional Costs

While the flight may be included in your Hoppyn membership, some flights may still involve:

• Landing fees at certain airports

• FBO handling fees (minor)

• Ground transportation or last-mile logistics

• Crew costs, including pilots, which may be charged separately depending on the charter agreement

These are often modest but should be accounted for when planning your trip.

Fixed costs for owning a private jet include maintenance and storage fees. Variable costs fluctuate based on usage and distance flown.

Real-World Use Cases for Empty Leg Flights

Spontaneous Weekend Getaways

Flying from LA to Napa last-minute? Empty legs often pop up for high-volume routes—perfect for spontaneous escapes without airline stress. Major companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft use private jets for executive travel, showing how private aviation is valued for flexibility and convenience.

Mid-range jets typically cost between $3 million and $5 million.

Business Trips

When time is money, flying private means no delays, no layovers, and no wasted hours in terminals. Many business travelers use empty legs for regional hops—especially between financial and tech hubs. Many companies, including Fortune 500 organizations and entrepreneurs, rely on private jets to maximize efficiency and flexibility for their business trips.

High-end private jets are priced at $5 million and up, offering luxury and comfort.

Celebrations & Milestones

Birthday in Vegas? Anniversary in Aspen? Flying private adds that unforgettable touch—and with empty legs, it’s actually affordable. You can expect a luxury experience that elevates any celebration, from personalized service to exclusive amenities.

For comparison, the cheapest private jets typically start at around $2 million.

Exploring Secondary Cities

Want to visit a lesser-known destination? Private jets can land in small airports where airlines don’t fly direct. These aircraft are able to operate in and out of smaller airports, providing flexibility and access to locations that commercial airlines cannot reach. Empty legs give you access to more places—without the 3-stop layover.

Additionally, owning a private jet involves various ongoing expenses, including maintenance, fuel, and crew costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an empty leg flight?

An empty leg flight (or dead leg) is a one-way repositioning flight flown by a private jet without passengers. These are offered at discounted rates to avoid flying the aircraft empty.

It's important to note that experienced pilots operate these flights, ensuring the same high safety standards as regular private jet charters.

How much can I save on empty-leg flights?

You can save up to 75% off standard private jet charter pricing. Members typically save around 50-75% on empty leg flights compared to regular charter rates. Some members report savings of $10K+ per flight.

Can I choose the departure time or route?

No. Empty legs have fixed schedules and destinations. The departure date for empty leg flights is also fixed and cannot be changed. That’s why they’re cheaper—you’re filling a seat on a flight that was already planned.

How often are new flights added to Hoppyn?

Hoppyn’s platform updates flights daily, pulling from a wide range of operators and routes across the globe. Through its leg program, Hoppyn can proactively match client preferences to available empty leg flights, ensuring travelers have access to the best options that fit their needs.

Do I need to pay per flight?

No. Hoppyn operates on a flat annual membership model. This exclusive approach to private travel offers members the convenience and flexibility to request as many empty-leg flights as they like, subject to availability.

Conclusion: Fly Private Without the Price Tag

Private jet travel is no longer reserved for the ultra-wealthy.

Thanks to empty leg flights, luxury aviation is finally accessible—and with Hoppyn, it’s simpler and more affordable than ever. With Hoppyn and empty leg flights, you can expect convenient booking, significant savings, and a seamless private jet experience. Our flat-fee membership unlocks thousands of flights, updated daily, so you can jet off at a moment’s notice without per-flight costs.

Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or a spontaneous weekend escape, empty leg flights offer a smart, stylish, and sustainable way to fly private.

Ready to browse flights and take off?

Join Hoppyn and discover how far you can go—for less.

For personalized assistance or flight details, contact Hoppyn today.