In aviation, what does the term 'ferry' refer to?

In aviation, the term 'ferry' specifically refers to the transfer of an aircraft without revenue passengers. This practice is commonly undertaken for various reasons, such as repositioning an aircraft to a maintenance facility, delivering it to a new owner, or moving it to a different airport for operational needs. Ferry flights can help airlines manage their fleet more effectively while ensuring that aircraft are in the right place for scheduled flights or servicing.

Ferry flights are distinct from regular passenger services as they do not involve paying customers—hence the significance of the term in differentiating the purpose of the flight. By focusing on operational efficiency without the burden of passenger logistics, airlines can maintain better control over their aircraft placements and overall service offerings.