Flying Green

There really is no such thing as flying green. Flying is a huge waste of resources and pollution to our planet. But when you think you have to fly, there are a few things to think about.

Fly direct whenever possible. Landing and takeoffs consume the most fuel. Takeoffs can use 25% of the fuel for short flights. Try to avoid flights of 600 miles or less.

Can you take a train instead? It is the best way to go if you can spend the time and enjoy the countryside. Or even a car? The share of pollution for one person on a cross country flight is equivalent to driving a SUV for a full day and night.

Fly during daylight hours. Some studies suggest that contrails, the white water vapor lines in the sky trailing after a jet, trap heat and encourage the formation of high-altitude cirrus clouds which in turn holds more heat in the atmosphere.

Fly newer jets. They are more fuel efficient and if more people made this distinction, it could increase demand for newer planes.

One planet, one home, one future for humanity.