Private Jet Emissions Surge Nearly 50% Over Four Years

Photo: Ross D Franklin/AP

A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment reveals a significant increase in carbon dioxide emissions from private jets, surging nearly 50% between 2019 and 2023. This rise is largely attributed to the travel habits of affluent individuals, especially surrounding major global events such as the World Cup and climate conferences. 

Researchers analyzed data from over 25,000 aircraft and nearly 19 million flights, estimating that in 2023 alone, private jets emitted approximately 15.6 million tonnes of CO₂. This figure accounts for about 1.8% of total commercial aviation emissions and represents a 46% increase from 2019. Notably, the carbon footprints of the most frequent private jet users were found to be hundreds of times greater than that of the average individual. 

The study highlights that high-profile international gatherings, including UN COP climate summits, are associated with a substantial number of private jet flights. For instance, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar saw 1,846 private jet flights, while the World Economic Forum in Switzerland accounted for 660 flights. Such events contribute significantly to the overall emissions from private aviation. 

Despite efforts within the industry to promote sustainability—such as offering carbon offsets and sustainable aviation fuels—emissions from private aviation continue to rise. Experts are calling for stricter regulations and higher taxes to mitigate this trend, emphasizing that the unchecked use of private jets by the wealthy undermines global efforts to combat climate change. The study’s lead author, Professor Stefan Gössling, stated that the findings reflect a “fundamental disregard of climate change at the top of society.” 

This surge in emissions underscores the need for more robust policies and individual accountability to address the environmental impact of private aviation. As the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, the disproportionate contributions from luxury travel sectors like private jets cannot be overlooked.