Climate change could limit European flights

Scientists at Reading University studied how hotter air – which makes it harder for planes to generate lift due to reduced density - affects aircraft performance during take-off at 30 sites across Europe. Their findings are detailed in Aerospace.

The research focused on the Airbus A320, a familiar single-aisle aircraft used for short and medium-haul flights. By the 2060s, some airports with shorter runways may need to reduce their maximum take-off weight by the equivalent of approximately 10 passengers per flight during summer months. 

In a statement, lead author Dr Jonny Williams said: “A warming world has an impact on people and businesses worldwide, and we are now showing one way it could increase the price of your summer holiday. Flying to Spain, Italy or Greece could get more expensive as flights carry fewer people due to climate change. 

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“Hot summer days when smaller airports have to reduce their weight will get more common. Our research shows conditions which used to happen about one day in a summer may happen three or four a week by the 2060s.