Airlines count the increased carbon footprint of war in Ukraine

Conflict has redrawn the global aviation map, forcing airlines to fly alternative routes which increase their CO2 emissions by up to 40%, writes Viktoriia Ivannikova

The new study analysed 14 routes between Europe and Asia affected by airspace restrictions and operated by three European airlines: Finnair; LOT Polish; and Lufthansa.

Some long-haul flights connecting Europe and Asia are emitting 40% more CO2 since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a new study shows. 

The spike is largely due to airspace closures above conflict zones which are forcing airlines to seek alternative routes, significantly increasing flight times. Longer flights consume more fuel and increase the operating costs for airlines, quite apart from their contribution to climate change.