IFR (Instrument Flight Rules)
IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) is the FAA regulatory framework for flying primarily by reference to cockpit instruments rather than outside visual references. Every Part 135 charter in the United States — including every empty leg — operates under IFR by default, with crews trained and current for IFR flight; operators abroad fly to the equivalent instrument rules of their own authority.
Also known as: instrument flight rules, ifr flight, ifr conditions
IFR is the operational framework that lets a properly-trained crew fly through clouds, low visibility, and at night without visual reference to the ground. It requires an IFR-equipped aircraft, an IFR-rated and current pilot, and an active IFR flight plan with ATC. The opposite is Visual Flight Rules (VFR), where the pilot navigates and separates from terrain by looking out the window.
Part 135 charter operations are almost always conducted under IFR, regardless of weather. The crew files an IFR flight plan with ATC, gets clearance for the route, and is in radar contact and radio communication with controllers throughout the flight. This is true even on a CAVU (clear-and-visibility-unlimited) summer afternoon — IFR provides higher safety margins than VFR.
For empty-leg passengers, the practical implication is that weather rarely cancels a certificated commercial charter outright. Crews are trained to fly in instrument conditions; the operator's dispatch process evaluates whether the destination is forecasting weather above minimums; the airport's approach procedures are designed for IFR arrival. Cancellations from weather usually involve only extreme conditions (heavy thunderstorm activity, low IFR at both destination and alternate airports).
Frequently asked questions
- Do private jets fly under IFR or VFR?
- Almost always IFR. Part 135 charter operations are typically conducted under Instrument Flight Rules with an active flight plan filed with ATC, regardless of weather. IFR provides higher safety margins and is the operational default for commercial charter.
Related terms
- Part 135 Operator
A Part 135 operator is an FAA-certificated company authorized to fly paying passengers on private (non-scheduled) charter aircraft under 14 CFR Part 135. Every legitimate private jet charter flown in the United States — including every empty leg — is operated under a Part 135 certificate; operators based elsewhere fly under the equivalent authority in their own jurisdiction.
- Empty Leg Flight
An empty leg flight is a one-way private jet flight sold at a discount because the aircraft has to fly without passengers to its next paid booking. Empty legs are typically priced 25–80% below retail charter, with the discount widening as the departure window narrows.
Sources
Looking for live empty leg inventory?
SkyAccess indexes live empty leg flights from 800+ certified charter operators across 5,000+ airports. Search by route, date, and aircraft category — most travelers find empty legs 25–75% below retail charter.
Search empty legs