While air travel has made travel highly comfortable and convenient, many people now look for ways to escape the long airport queues and congested journeys with hundreds of people on board commercial flights. That’s why private jets have become immensely popular. Besides being incredibly luxurious and providing customized services, these jets offer absolute privacy to their passengers and do away with layovers. What’s more, there are ways to fly private at affordable prices.

Tips to get cheap deals on private jet tickets
Private aviation is possible for a fraction of the usual cost, even under $150, if you know where to look.

Book empty-leg flights
Empty-leg flights occur when a private jet is booked for a one-way trip but needs to return to its base or another destination without passengers. This situation arises because most private jets are chartered for round trips, and when the return leg is unoccupied, it becomes an “empty leg” flight. Operators often offer these empty-leg flights at discounted rates to offset some of the costs and maximize the aircraft’s utilization. You can watch empty-leg flight listings or contact private jet operators to inquire about available deals. You can get up to a 90% discount on a private jet flight, and the discount can be lower if other passengers share the cost.

• How to find empty-leg flights
  Here’s how you can find empty-leg flights:
  • Private jet operators: Directly contacting private jet operators is one way to inquire about available empty-leg flights. They can provide information on upcoming empty legs and any associated discounted rates.
  • Charter brokers: Charter brokers specialize in connecting travelers with private jet operators. They have access to a vast network of operators and can help you find empty-leg flights matching your desired routes and dates.
  • Online platforms and apps: Various online platforms and mobile apps cater to private jet charters and empty-leg flights. These platforms list available empty-leg flights and allow you to search for specific routes or destinations. Some platforms also offer notification services, alerting users when suitable empty legs become available.
• Tips for booking empty-leg flights
  Here are a few tips for booking empty-leg flights:
  • Be flexible: Since empty-leg flights are pre-scheduled based on other bookings, flexibility with your travel plans is necessary. This increases your chances of finding a suitable empty leg. Being open to different departure times, dates, and destinations can significantly expand your options.
  • Plan in advance: Keeping an eye on upcoming events or popular travel periods can help you find empty legs that align with your desired travel dates. By planning, you can secure these discounted flights before they get booked.
  • Understand the terms and conditions: Empty-leg flights often have specific terms and conditions, including limited flexibility. You need to read and understand the terms of cancellations and other rules before booking an empty-leg flight to avoid any surprises.
  • Consider round trips:  If your travel plans include a round trip, you should find alternate ways to make the trip. Similarly, you must find a discounted empty-leg flight for the return trip. You must check with operators to see if they can accommodate your travel needs.

Join private jet memberships or clubs
Private jet memberships or clubs offer access to shared private jets at discounted rates. By paying a membership fee, you gain access to a fleet of aircraft and can book flights at reduced costs. Research and compare different membership options to find the one that suits your budget and travel needs. For example, Set Jet offers membership programs for a monthly fee of approximately $99, providing users access to private planes for travel. Wheels Up also offers membership programs for yearly fees that provide users with access to private planes for travel.

Book last-minute or off-peak flights
Like commercial airlines, private jet operators sometimes offer last-minute deals or lower rates during off-peak periods. You can secure cheap private jet flights by being flexible with your travel dates and taking advantage of these opportunities. Stay updated with newsletters and follow private jet operators on social media to take advantage of such deals.

Fly with a group or share a jet
Private jets are designed to accommodate a limited number of passengers, making them an excellent option for group travel. By splitting the cost among friends, family, or colleagues, you can significantly reduce the individual expense of flying on a private jet. Coordinate with your travel companions and plan a trip together to enjoy a luxurious experience at a more affordable price. For example, JetSuite gathers available private jet flights with unoccupied seats and gives passengers exclusive “next-day” deals. If you use this option, you can rent the entire plane and accommodate up to six passengers for as little as $536 per leg of the journey. This means you could pay less than $90 per head, making private jet travel affordable. Many other companies, including Surf Air, offer such last-minute deals.

Similarly, you can opt for jet sharing, also known as ride-sharing, which allows individuals to share a private jet with other passengers heading in the same direction. Sharing the flight with others can divide costs and make private jet travel more budget-friendly. Various platforms and companies facilitate jet-sharing arrangements, making finding suitable flights and potential travel companions easier.

Opt for smaller aircraft
Choosing a smaller private jet can often be more cost-effective. Larger aircraft with greater passenger capacity tend to come with higher price tags. If you are traveling with a smaller group or have fewer luggage requirements, consider opting for a light jet or turboprop aircraft. These options offer cost savings and provide the same comfort and convenience as larger jets.
Many factors affect the cost of renting a private jet. Some include distance and duration, aircraft size, landing fees, in-flight catering, ground transportation, or in-flight amenities. But with the right strategies and research, it’s possible to enjoy the luxury and comfort of private jet travel without burning a hole in your pocket.