Train vs plane emissions on short trips is a big gap. Using UK government emission factors, Our World in Data shows a domestic flight emits about 246 grams of CO2 equivalent per passenger kilometer, compared with about 35 grams for national rail.
The numbers
Short haul flights come in at about 154 grams per passenger kilometer, and an average petrol car at about 170 grams.
Very short flights, under about 1,000 kilometers, are more carbon intensive per kilometer than longer ones, because takeoff burns so much fuel.
When the train makes sense
For trips of a few hundred miles, the train can also save time once you count airport security and travel to and from airports.
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Not everywhere
Train service varies a lot by region, so the greener choice depends on what is available where you are.
The fine print
These figures use UK factors and may differ in other countries. Flight figures include an extra allowance for warming effects at high altitude.
Why it matters
Travel is one of the biggest parts of many people’s footprints. Swapping even a few short flights makes a difference.
Try it yourself
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Submit your companySources: Our World in Data travel carbon footprint.
Key takeaways on train vs plane emissions
Here is the short version on train vs plane emissions. Short haul flights come in at about 154 grams per passenger kilometer, and an average petrol car at about 170 grams. Very short flights, under about 1,000 kilometers, are more carbon intensive per kilometer than longer ones, because takeoff burns so much fuel. For trips of a few hundred miles, the train can also save time once you count airport security and travel to and from airports. Train service varies a lot by region, so the greener choice depends on what is available where you are. These figures use UK factors and may differ in other countries. Travel is one of the biggest parts of many people’s footprints.
Use these points on train vs plane emissions as a starting point, check the numbers against your own home or business, and share what you learn with someone who can use it.
