As mentioned, estimates are calculated for you and shared for each flight option that you choose. It couldn’t be easier. But what actually happens behind-the-scenes?
It’s pretty straightforward, really. Total flight emissions are based on European Emissions Agency estimations that take into account the type of equipment and the full emissions cycle – from scheduled departure (starting with taxi) to scheduled arrival (ending with arrival at the gate). Other variables, such as operating airline codes and alternate fuels, are also taken into consideration.
We normalize for ‘shorter’ and ‘longer’ flights and then calculate a per-minute emissions estimate to generate the total per flight.
You may be wondering if there is a further break-down given the decisions you have to make along the booking process. Yes, there are also calculations made regarding Capacity to give you estimated emissions per seat and Load Factor considerations around seasonality, time of day, etc.
You can take a deeper dive below which will give you greater detail about the ‘math.’ Either way, I hope you enjoyed this look behind the curtain. At the end of the day, you can help your organization meet its sustainability goals before anyone gets on a plane. Know that your choices influence demand. And your choices make a difference.