Brussels, October 1, 2024 -The new analysis commissioned by Greenpeace Central and Eastern Europe reveals a sharp increase in private flights to reaction to European holiday points last year, with a significant increase during peak holiday periods compared to trips outside seasonal
See here to see a Greenpeace data sheet in the investigation, with data at the country level.
In European holiday destinations, private jet arrivals increased by 250% in July compared to January, indicating that most of these flights were for leisure purposes. More than 117,000 flights were recorded to 45 luxury destinations for 2023, which resulted in more than 520,000 tons of co2 emissions. In particular, Nice, Geneva and Palma de Mallorca emerged as the three main destinations for private jet traffic.
Clara Thompson, Greenpeace transport activist, Germany, said: “While common people face the devastating impacts of the climatic crisis – Extreme floods, droughts, heat waves and forest fires – The Ultra Ricos continue to rise aboard their private planes under the appearance of business trips, but often for leisure trips to the most luxurious Christmas places in Europe. These private flights represent a disproportionate proportion of aviation emissions, accelerating the climatic emergency. This extravagant luxury not only worsens environmental damage, but also deepens inequality, leaving the majority to suffer the consequences of climate disasters and daily difficulties. ”
The research, conducted by the T3 transport experts, focuses on destinations very promoted by luxury tourist operators and private aircraft companies. The majority of private flights occurred in the Mediterranean during the summer and moved to the Alpine region in the coldest months. The data reveal a significant seasonal peak, highlighting greater use for leisure and vacation purposes.
In addition, 93.2% of these flights were within Europe, with 11.9% that cover short distances of up to 250 km, trips that could have been easily done using more sustainable options such as trains or transfers. A single private reaction flight to these destinations emits almost both carbon and the average annual emissions of the energy of the European citizen (4.46 in front of 5.37 tons of co2), underlining how the ultra rich contribute disproportionately to the climatic crisis.
Greenpeace is asking for an immediate prohibition of private airplanes and that governments consider a tax on assets for billionaires in Europe to finance public goods such as affordable homes and public transport.
Contacts:
Clara Thompson, transport activist, Greenpeace Germany, (protected email)+49 175 8530 226
Mihaela Bogeljić, Communications, Central Greenpeace and Eastern Europe, (protected email)+385 92 2929265
This press comment is also available at: www.greenpeace.eu
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Greenpeace is an independent global campaign network that acts to change attitudes and behavior, protect and conserve the environment and promote peace. We do not accept governments donations, EU, companies or political parties. Greenpeace has more than three million followers and 26 independent national and regional organizations with offices in more than 55 countries.
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