If you've ever dreamed of flying private without the price tag, empty leg flights are your golden ticket. Here are five services that make it happen.
The Empty Leg Revolution
Empty leg flights are repositioning journeys that private jets must make between paid charters. These flights often fly with no passengers, creating a massive opportunity for savvy travelers to book luxury travel at a fraction of the cost. In recent years, a wave of platforms and memberships has emerged to connect travelers with these deals, making private aviation more accessible than ever. Whether you're a business executive needing flexibility or a leisure traveler seeking adventure, empty leg services offer a unique way to fly private without the commitment of ownership or full charter rates.
How We Evaluated These Services
We assessed each service based on its service scope, pricing clarity, and local fit for US travelers. Service scope considers the breadth of routes and aircraft options. Pricing clarity looks at how transparent and straightforward the costs are. Local fit evaluates how well the service caters to the US market, including availability and ease of use. Each service stood out in different ways, from membership models to direct booking platforms.
Here's a quick look at how these five services compare in the empty leg private jet space.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| SkyAccess | Direct booking without membership |
| Open Sky Jets – Global Air Charter Specialists | Membership perks and fleet variety |
| VAUNT | Unlimited flights for a flat fee |
| VistaJet | Premium global access |
| XO | App-based deal hunting |
The Deep Dive: Your Empty Leg Options
#1 SkyAccess
A screenshot of the SkyAccess website.
SkyAccess is a no-membership marketplace that connects you directly with certified operators for empty leg flights at up to 75% off. With over 800 certified operators and 4,000 live listings, you can browse and book the whole aircraft without any subscription or quote loop. The platform is trusted by over 200,000 travelers and offers a worry-free guarantee with full refunds if the operator cancels. If you want to book quickly and transparently, SkyAccess is your go-to. Check out their popular routes like New York to Miami starting at $5,588 or Los Angeles to Las Vegas at $1,887. It's the most straightforward way to access empty legs without any commitment.
#2 Open Sky Jets – Global Air Charter Specialists
A screenshot of the Open Sky Jets website.
Open Sky Jets is a full-service air charter agency with over 20 years of experience, offering access to a global fleet of over 2,500 aircraft. Their Ascend membership unlocks exclusive access to hundreds of empty-leg flights and seat-sharing opportunities across North America and beyond. With transparent pricing and no hidden fees, you can fly from Las Vegas to Scottsdale for $10,000 or Vancouver to Kelowna for $4,000. The membership model provides flexibility without ownership or long-term commitment, making it ideal for frequent flyers. They also handle complex logistics and event planning, ensuring a seamless experience. If you value a trusted name with a wide network, Open Sky Jets is a solid choice.
#3 VAUNT
A screenshot of the VAUNT website.
VAUNT offers a unique membership model where one flat fee of $2,995 covers all your flights and passengers for the entire year. There are no additional per-flight fees, hidden costs, or booking fees, and you can fly as often as you like. Each reserved flight is entirely private, so you can bring friends, family, and pets along at no extra cost. This is perfect for spontaneous travelers who want unlimited access to empty legs. As featured in Forbes, VAUNT makes private jet travel accessible without the hefty price tag. If you're looking for unlimited flights, VAUNT is a game-changer.
#4 VistaJet
A screenshot of the VistaJet website.
VistaJet is a global leader in private aviation, offering empty leg flights through its XO platform. With a hand-selected fleet of premium safety-vetted aircraft, you can access empty legs every week via the Current Jet Deals section. The XO app makes it easy to browse and book empty leg offers on the go. VistaJet's reputation for luxury and reliability is unmatched, and their global reach means you can find deals across the US and beyond. If you're looking for a premium experience with a trusted name, VistaJet is worth considering. Their empty leg flights are a cost-effective way to experience the benefits of private travel.
#5 XO
A screenshot of the XO website.
XO, part of the Vista group, offers simple and immediate access to a hand-selected fleet of premium aircraft. Their Current Jet Deals section is updated weekly with empty leg flights, and you can also find deals on the XO mobile app. XO provides a streamlined booking process with no membership required for empty leg deals. They also offer shared flights and membership options for those who want more flexibility. If you're looking for a straightforward way to find empty legs, XO is a reliable choice. Their app makes it easy to view all available deals and book instantly.
How to Choose the Right Empty Leg Service
When choosing an empty leg service, consider how often you plan to fly and whether you prefer a membership or pay-per-flight model. If you're a frequent flyer, a membership like Open Sky Jets or VAUNT might offer better value. For occasional trips, a no-membership platform like SkyAccess or XO gives you flexibility without commitment. Also, think about the routes you need and whether the service covers your preferred destinations. Finally, check the pricing transparency and any additional fees to avoid surprises. Your choice should align with your travel habits and budget.
Automating Your Empty Leg Search
To stay ahead of the best deals, set up alerts on platforms like SkyAccess and XO to get notified when new empty legs are posted. Many services offer email alerts or app notifications for your preferred routes. You can also follow social media accounts of these companies for flash deals. By automating your search, you can snag the best prices before they're gone. Consider using multiple services to maximize your options and increase your chances of finding the perfect flight.
The Final Synthesis
Empty leg flights are transforming the way we think about private jet travel, making it more accessible and affordable. Whether you choose a membership model like Open Sky Jets or VAUNT, or a direct booking platform like SkyAccess, there's a service that fits your needs. Each of these five services offers unique benefits, from unlimited flights to premium global access. The key is to understand your travel patterns and choose accordingly. With the right service, you can enjoy the luxury of private aviation without the full price tag.