Flight Emissions Calculator — CO₂

How flight emissions are calculated

The tool multiplies the flight distance by an emission factor, around 0.15 kilograms of CO₂ per kilometre in economy, and accounts for the travel class and whether the trip is a return.

For example, a 2,000 kilometre one-way flight in economy produces about 300 kilograms of CO₂, and a return doubles that amount.

What you enter and what you get

You enter the one-way flight distance in kilometres, indicate whether the trip is a return, and state the travel class.

You get the total emissions in kilograms and tonnes, the equivalent in driving kilometres, and the flight's share of an annual budget of 2.5 tonnes.

Who it is for

The calculator serves travellers who want to understand the climate impact of flying and those considering offsetting. The comparison with driving and rail helps you choose a more environmentally sensible way to travel.

Good to know

Flight emissions are about 0.15 kilograms of CO₂ per kilometre in economy. Business class takes up more space, so emissions per passenger are higher.

The climate target is below 2.5 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year, so a single long flight can take up a large share of the whole year's budget.