How to Book Charter Positioning Flights for a Fraction of the Cost
For travelers who crave luxury but love a great deal, charter positioning flights—also known as empty leg flights—offer a way to fly private at a fraction of the cost. These flights occur when a private jet needs to reposition for its next scheduled charter and would otherwise fly empty. To maximize revenue, operators offer these flights at heavily discounted rates, sometimes up to 75-90% off standard charter prices. If you’re flexible with your travel plans, this can be an incredible way to experience private aviation for less.
How to Find Affordable Charter Positioning Flights
Sign Up for Empty Leg Alerts
Many private jet companies and charter brokers offer email notifications or app-based alerts for last-minute empty leg flights. By signing up, you’ll get access to discounted routes as they become available. Some of the best platforms for this include:
JetSmarter (now XO) – Offers on-demand charter flights and empty leg deals.
Website: https://flyxo.com/
Victor – A global private jet charter marketplace with competitive pricing.
Website: https://www.flyvictor.com/en-us/
Jettly – A subscription-based platform with real-time empty leg flight access.
Website: https://jettly.com/
Villiers Jets – Specializes in luxury travel, including repositioning flights.
Website: https://www.villiersjets.com/
Paramount Business Jets – Known for exclusive empty leg deals.
PrivateFly – Provides instant quotes and last-minute discounts.
Website: https://www.privatefly.com/
By subscribing to these services, you’ll be among the first to know when a flight deal becomes available.
Work With a Private Jet Broker
Private jet brokers have access to large databases of available empty leg flights and can sometimes customize routes for an additional fee. Brokers can also negotiate lower rates, especially for frequent flyers or those booking on short notice. Building a relationship with a trusted broker can be a game-changer for scoring last-minute deals.
Use Private Jet Booking Apps
In today’s digital world, booking a private flight is easier than ever with mobile apps. Some of the best apps for booking empty leg flights include:
Blade – Offers semi-private flights and charter options.
Set Jet – A membership-based model with reduced pricing.
XO – Allows users to book empty legs directly and bid on flights.
These apps function similarly to rideshare services, making it seamless to book private travel at a discount.
Book Close to Departure for the Best Rates
Timing is everything. The closer to departure, the better the deal. If you’re open to last-minute travel, you can often negotiate even lower rates directly with the operator. While this requires flexibility, it’s one of the best ways to fly private for significantly less.
Consider Private Jet Membership Programs
If you fly frequently, some companies offer monthly memberships that provide unlimited access to empty leg flights. This can be a cost-effective option for those who travel often. Popular programs include:
Sentient Jet – Offers a jet card with exclusive pricing.
Wheels Up – Membership-based private jet services.
Surf Air – Subscription model for frequent private flyers.
These memberships can provide consistent savings if private travel is a regular part of your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Charter positioning flights provide a fantastic opportunity to fly private without the hefty price tag. By leveraging alerts, brokers, mobile apps, last-minute booking strategies, and membership programs, you can enjoy the luxury of private aviation while keeping costs low.
If you’re ready to explore the world of private jet travel at a discount, start signing up for alerts and connecting with brokers today. Who knows? Your next luxury adventure might be just a repositioning flight away!