Flying private at the price of an airline ticket? That is the promise of empty legs. In 2026 it is the most accessible way to experience business aviation — provided you are flexible.
What is an empty leg?
An empty leg is a flight operated without passengers: most often to bring the aircraft back to base after a one-way trip, or to reach the airport where it will pick up a client. Rather than fly at a loss, the operator discounts this segment.
Why are the prices so low?
The operating cost of the repositioning flight is already committed by the operator. Any revenue is welcome: the discount commonly reaches 70–75% of the standard charter rate.
Indicative price examples
| Route | Standard charter | Empty leg |
|---|---|---|
| Paris → Nice (Light Jet) | ≈ €8,000 | €2,500–4,000 |
| London → Nice (Light Jet) | €8,000–12,000 | ≈ €3,000 |
| Geneva → Paris (Midsize) | ≈ €9,000 | €3,000–4,500 |
| Long-haul (Heavy Jet) | €40,000+ | −60 to 75% |
Indicative 2026 ranges, for the whole aircraft (not per passenger). The final price depends on availability.
Benefits and limits
- + Up to −75% on the charter, a real private-jet experience.
- + All aircraft categories, worldwide.
- − Date, time and route imposed by the original flight.
- − Possible cancellation if the initial mission changes.
How to book at the best price
Be flexible on dates and accept a nearby airport: that is the key. Also compare the cost of a standard private flight with our comparator, and entrust your search to Excell’Jets: we monitor empty legs continuously and alert you as soon as a flight matches.
Frequently asked questions
What is an empty leg?
It is a flight a private jet makes without passengers to reposition — for example the return to base after a one-way trip. As the operator prefers to monetise it, it is offered at a heavily reduced rate.
How much can you save on an empty leg?
Up to 70–75% versus a standard charter. A Light Jet Paris–Nice billed around €8,000 in standard charter can drop to €2,500–4,000 as an empty leg.
What are the drawbacks of an empty leg?
The date, time and route are imposed by the original flight: flexibility is required. The flight may also be cancelled if the initial mission changes.
How do you find an empty leg?
Give Excell’Jets your route and dates: we alert you as soon as an empty leg matches your need, at the best price.
Excell’Jets finds you the ideal empty leg at the best price. Tell us your route and receive our opportunities.