What is the purpose of a Ferry Flight?

A ferry flight is specifically conducted to return an aircraft to its home base or to another destination without any passengers on board. This type of flight allows airlines to reposition aircraft for operational needs, such as preparing for scheduled passenger flights or moving an aircraft that has been out of service back into service.

Choosing to conduct a ferry flight is a practical decision made when there is a necessity to relocate an aircraft for reasons like maintenance checks, repairs, or to meet future scheduling demands. While it might seem operationally related to maintenance, the main focus of a ferry flight is not to conduct maintenance but to ensure that the aircraft can be positioned correctly for its next flights.

In comparison, transporting passengers or flying cargo involves actively serving customers or carrying goods, which are distinctly different objectives than those of a ferry flight. The defining characteristic of a ferry flight is its focus on repositioning the aircraft without the presence of any paying passengers.