The Top Ski Destinations for Private Jet Travelers
For many, ski season is more than a vacation; it’s a lifestyle. And when your
Private jet travel is often seen as a luxury reserved for the wealthy, but empty leg flights are making it more accessible than ever. Also known as “deadhead” flights, empty legs occur when a private jet needs to return to its home base or reposition for its next scheduled trip—flying without paying passengers. To recover some of these costs, operators offer these flights at steep discounts, often up to 75% off the standard charter rate.
According to a report from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), nearly 30–40% of private jet flights operate empty, creating a massive opportunity for savvy travelers to experience private aviation for less. For example, a typical light jet charter that might cost $10,000 could be booked as an empty leg for as little as $2,500–$3,000, depending on the route and availability.
Empty leg flights have gained popularity not just for their affordability, but also for the same advantages as traditional private charters: speed, comfort, and access to more than 5,000 airports in the U.S.—compared to just 500 served by commercial airlines. Passengers still enjoy private terminals, no security lines, and complete privacy at a fraction of the price.
However, it’s important to note that empty legs are typically one-way, with fixed departure times and routes that can change if the original charter customer adjusts their plans. This makes them best suited for flexible travelers looking for a bargain without rigid schedules.
Data from Private Jet Card Comparisons shows a 25% year-over-year increase in empty leg bookings, a trend fueled by both cost-conscious leisure travelers and businesses seeking affordable alternatives to traditional charters.
For those willing to be flexible, empty leg flights represent one of the best-kept secrets in aviation—delivering the luxury of private jet travel at a price that rivals premium commercial tickets.
For many, ski season is more than a vacation; it’s a lifestyle. And when your