Which passenger plane pollutes the most?
Question
Q: We are writing an essay relating to Aviation and CO2 and air quality. Which aeroplane is the biggest sinner? We are not thinking about which aeroplane that burns the most fuel but which one contributes the most to CO2.
Answer
A: Without doubt this would be the Concorde and for a passenger plane currently flying it would be the Boeing 747.
Let’s dig a little more into CO2 and aeroplanes. To determine the CO2 footprint of an aeroplane, then you need to consider:
- Aeroplane type
- Type of operation
- Climate
- Time of day
- Fuel type and consumption
- Altitude of the flight
This is why you come across the term “aviation multiplier”. You can read more about this here.
One reason why the Concorde comes out as the all time “winner” for CO2 footprint of a passenger plane, was due to the high altitudes at which it released its emissions. This source suggest it contributed x5 more to global warming and it talks about the importance of regulations of next generation of supersonic business jets.
You also need to remember that CO2 emissions are directly related to the amount of fuel burned. The Concorde and Boeing 747 planes burn more fuel and it’s also is one of the reasons why they have higher CO2 emissions.
For the purpose of your essay you might want to take a look at the ICAO Carbon Emissions Calculator. You can calculate you CO2 emissions from air travel.
We have also found an interesting document describing the science involved with calculating the CO2 footprint of various types of aeroplanes – you can view this via the link CO2 footprint of aeroplanes.
Good luck with your essay
Happy landings
