Flight Carbon Footprint Calculator
Estimate the CO2 emissions of a flight based on distance and travel class.
CO₂ Emissions (per passenger)
In Metric Tonnes
Calculation Steps
Understanding Flight Carbon Footprints
Air travel is one of the most carbon-intensive activities a person can undertake. A single long-haul return flight can produce more CO₂ per passenger than the average person in many countries emits in an entire year. This calculator estimates the per-passenger carbon footprint of a flight using the distance flown and the travel class, helping you understand the climate impact of your journeys.
How It Works
The calculation uses an economy-class baseline emission factor of 0.115 kg CO₂ per passenger-kilometre. The total per-passenger footprint is the flight distance multiplied by this factor and by a travel-class multiplier that reflects the greater space and weight allocated to premium seats.
- Economy: multiplier 1.0 (baseline)
- Premium Economy: multiplier 1.5
- Business: multiplier 2.0
- First Class: multiplier 3.0
How to Reduce Your Flight Emissions
- Choose economy class, which spreads emissions across more passengers
- Fly direct routes and avoid unnecessary connections
- Combine trips and consider video meetings instead of short flights
- Use trains for shorter journeys where practical
- Support verified carbon offset programs for unavoidable flights
Note: This calculator provides estimates based on an average economy-class emission factor. Actual emissions vary based on aircraft type, load factor, route, weather, and other operational factors. The figures shown are per passenger and do not include radiative forcing effects at altitude.