How far would you go to save the Earth? Scientists say the right question is: How long would you travel to save the planet? To reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, scientists propose adding 50 minutes to your flying time. A new study says decreasing flying speed and increasing flight time can reduce emissions. Here’s more to it.
Decrease Flight Speed & Increase Flight Time By 50 Min
According to a report by WION, the University of Cambridge conducted an aviation analysis this year. This study listed out a series of sustainable goals the industry can attempt to reduce its carbon footprint. Despite the aviation industry setting an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, it seems far from feasible from where we stand today, say researchers. However, they proposed a solution to reduce the industry’s impact on climate change.
While it may inconvenience passengers and stakeholders, in the long run, this proposal can be good for the planet. As of today, the aviation industry makes up to four per cent of the increase in the global warming rate. This is alarming, to say the least. Not to forget, it adds 2.5 per cent of this comes solely from global CO2 emissions.
Also Read: Bengaluru And Bidar Get A 600-km Corridor; Expected To Reduce Travel Time By More Than Half
Study Proposes Change In Air Travel To Save The Planet
So, researchers suggested flying slower and extending the flight time will in turn reduce fuel burning. They suggested decreasing the flight speed by around 15 per cent to bring down the fuel burn by five to seven per cent. But what’s the impact of this directive on passengers? Their travel time will increase by a whopping 50 minutes. This seems like a major inconvenience if you look at it myopically. But in the long run, keeping in mind the future of the planet, this could be a small price to pay.
Also Read: Mumbai’s 6.72-Km Airoli-Katai Naka Project To Begin Soon, To Reduce Travel Time By Half
Since aeroplanes are often the most preferred mode of travel due to their speed. Many people might not be too eager to accept this change. Another way to help people accept the change in their travel time is to better airport organisation. With less wait time at airports, passengers may warm up to a longer flight time easily. Also, to increase flight time, planes may need to be designed to fly at slower speeds. Industry leaders will take a look at this report in New York City soon.
Meanwhile, the question remains, would you be willing to fly for 50 minutes more to save the planet?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro