I know what you’re thinking. You can’t possibly charter a private jet without breaking the bank. Private jets cost tens of thousands of pounds making them strictly out of bounds for anyone but the uber rich and famous.
But what if I were to tell you that there is a way for normal people to charter private jets? Admittedly, this isn’t going to be your everyday mode of transport but it is possible to find an amazing deal to make this once in a lifetime opportunity possible.
Let me introduce you to Empty Legs.
This is an industry term used to describe an empty plane. Charter plane companies will have whisked billionaires and celebs off to some exotic and luxurious destination and they then need to fly the plane somewhere else. Rather than fly an empty plane, savvy charter plane companies are selling the flight at a discounted rate. After all, it’s better to make a little bit of money than no money at all. Car rental companies have been doing something similar for years whereby they allow people to relocate cars for free, they just need to drive the vehicle from one destination to another within a set amount of time.
This gives us normal folk the chance to sample the VIP lifestyle at a fraction of the cost. We’re still talking a couple of grand for a flight, but it isn’t unattainable if you’re filling an 8-10 seater plane. Particularly for a special occasion like a big birthday, a proposal, a honeymoon or simply to tick it off your bucket list.
And the best news, you still get the full private plane experience. That includes the champers and the luxury snacks and getting to swan in just 15 minutes before takeoff.
No more tiny seats, no horrible plane meals, no stinking toilets and you won’t need to sneakily squeeze on your overweight and oversized cabin baggage in the hope no one notices!
I think it would be perfect for a big birthday. It’s my 30th in 2 and a half years so I better get saving! The only problem is, it’s going to be tough going back to Ryanair after sampling the high life. I’ve been lucky enough to fly first or business class a couple of times and even going back to economy from that was tough, imagine how tough it would be after a private jet!
Check out aircharter.co.uk to see some examples of the prices for the flights, you could save a whopping 75%. It’s worth keeping an eye out on the website, just in case an amazing bargain turns up!
What do you think? Would you charter a plane if you could get it at an affordable price?
Photo credit: Falcon 50
Michael
Tuesday 27th of October 2020
This article is spot on! Most people don't realise that private jet charter can be relatiely affordable, especially when you compare it with business class. Another tip: consider empty leg flights - these are unsold portions of flights that are sold at reduced prices.
Ridley Fitzgerald
Thursday 14th of September 2017
It's great to learn how to charter a private flight. I've always wanted to fly on a private jet, and I know my family would love it to. Plus, if we're lucky, we could be on the same plane as a billionaire or celebrity, right?
Rogelio
Monday 7th of March 2016
I'll definitely be looking into this, wouldn't mind sharing a private jet with a few friends. It sounds like an unforgettable experience...
Sand In My Suitcase
Wednesday 8th of April 2015
Oh yes, we'd happily trade flying in the back for a private jet charter :-). Good tip about chartering a private jet if you're traveling as a family group or with a group of friends - this could certainly work if you're booking a holiday villa for a group.
TheTravelHack
Friday 10th of April 2015
That would be amazing if you had your whole family flying out to a villa and you could charter a private jet too!
Lauren Meshkin @BonVoyageLauren
Friday 3rd of April 2015
Wow! This is definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing :)