I think that’s an oversimplification. Takeoff for one massively impacts carbon emissions, so direct flights are better than multiple transfers. Booking business class probably has an even larger effect. And the there’s load averages and plane types.
It is a significant simplification, but people usually dont have many short flights on a trip. Its usually 1 or 2. Can be a huge improvement to get people onto electrified rail.
If I have a choice between two flights A and B, based exclusively on CO2 emissions, the only thing my selection changes is my body weight/luggage added to the flight. But the emissions calculation (as I understand it) is the total anticipated CO2 of the flight divided by the number of seats. And the bulk of those emissions come from lifting the plane itself, not the individual passengers.
The plane still flies whether or not I’m on it, though. So my choice of flight does not really impact emitted carbon.
I think that’s an oversimplification. Takeoff for one massively impacts carbon emissions, so direct flights are better than multiple transfers. Booking business class probably has an even larger effect. And the there’s load averages and plane types.
It is a significant simplification, but people usually dont have many short flights on a trip. Its usually 1 or 2. Can be a huge improvement to get people onto electrified rail.
I guess heavy luggage might impact emissions marginally. But do you really believe the flight is staying on the tarmac because you didn’t book a seat?
To me, this comment completely contradicts the arguments in your previous comment. I’m curious to learn your actual opinion on the matter.
If I have a choice between two flights A and B, based exclusively on CO2 emissions, the only thing my selection changes is my body weight/luggage added to the flight. But the emissions calculation (as I understand it) is the total anticipated CO2 of the flight divided by the number of seats. And the bulk of those emissions come from lifting the plane itself, not the individual passengers.
The plane still flies whether or not I’m on it, though. So my choice of flight does not really impact emitted carbon.