Private Jets Turned Taxi: Climate Impact of the Ultra-Rich’s Air Travel
Recent research reveals that private jets, often used by the ultra-rich for convenience, significantly contribute to global carbon dioxide emissions. Between 2019 and 2023, emissions from these flights surged by 46%, reaching an estimated 15.6 million tonnes in 2023—equivalent to the emissions from 3.7 million petrol cars. The study, led by Professor Stefan Gossling, highlights that an hour of private jet travel can emit as much CO2 as an average person does in a year. The demand for such flights increased during and after the Covid pandemic, raising concerns about the environmental impact of lavish travel habits.