Expert in logistics optimization and aerospace efficiency.
Estimate your air travel time accurately using our Duration of Flight Calculator. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, this tool helps you calculate flight time based on distance or geographic coordinates.
Duration of Flight Calculator
Duration of Flight Calculator Formula
For coordinates, we use Haversine Formula:
a = sin²(Δφ/2) + cos φ1 ⋅ cos φ2 ⋅ sin²(Δλ/2)
d = R ⋅ 2 ⋅ atan2(√a, √(1−a))
Variables:
- Origin/Destination: Geographic coordinates used to calculate the Great Circle path.
- Distance: The shortest path between two points on a sphere.
- Average Speed: The standard cruising speed (usually 800–950 km/h for commercial jets).
- Buffer Time: Time added for taxiing, takeoff, and landing patterns.
Related Calculators
- Fuel Burn Efficiency Calculator
- Layover Time Optimizer
- Great Circle Distance Calculator
- Time Zone Converter for Travelers
What is Duration of Flight Calculator?
A Duration of Flight Calculator is a specialized tool used by travelers and aviation enthusiasts to estimate the total time spent in the air between two locations. Unlike simple distance calculators, this tool accounts for the curvature of the Earth (Great Circle route) and factors in average cruising speeds.
Knowing the flight duration helps in planning airport transfers, managing jet lag, and selecting the most efficient flight paths. It is essential for understanding the “block time” versus “flight time.”
How to Calculate Flight Duration (Example)
- Determine the distance (e.g., New York to London is approx 5,570 km).
- Select the cruising speed (e.g., 850 km/h).
- Divide Distance by Speed: 5,570 / 850 = 6.55 hours.
- Convert decimals to minutes: 0.55 * 60 = 33 minutes.
- Add Buffer Time (e.g., 30 mins): Total = 7 hours 03 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the calculated time exactly what my airline shows?
Airlines use “Block Time,” which includes pushback and gate arrival. Our calculator provides a highly accurate estimate based on physical distance and speed.
Does wind speed affect flight duration?
Yes, tailwinds can shorten flights while headwinds lengthen them. This calculator assumes a neutral wind component.
What is the Haversine formula?
It is a navigation formula used to calculate the shortest distance between two points on the surface of a sphere using latitudes and longitudes.
Why add buffer time?
Buffer time covers taxiing, holding patterns, and initial climb/descent which are slower than cruise speed.