Free travel calculator
Flight time and distance
Pick two cities or airports. You get the great-circle distance and an approximate flight time, so you can compare destinations before you search for real fares.
Frequently asked questions
How is the flight time calculated?
We measure the great-circle distance (the shortest path over the Earth, from the coordinates of the two airports) and divide it by an assumed average speed of 750 to 850 km/h, then add 30 minutes for taxiing, take-off, climb, descent and approach. On the slower figure we also add 6% to the distance, because real routes are longer than the straight arc. The result is a range, and the number shown as the estimate is the middle of it.
Why does my airline show a different time?
Airline schedules are built from real routes, winds, air traffic control and padding for delays. A flight against a strong jet stream, such as westbound across the Atlantic, can take an hour or more longer than the same flight eastbound. This tool uses no wind or schedule data, so treat it as a planning guide and check your booking for the real duration.
What is a great-circle distance?
It is the shortest distance between two points on a sphere. On a flat map the line looks curved, which is why flights between, for example, Europe and North America pass far to the north of a straight line drawn on the map. Real flight paths are usually a little longer than the great circle.
Are the arrival times adjusted for daylight saving?
No. The local arrival time uses the standard-time offset of each airport. If either place is on daylight saving time when you travel, the real local time can differ by an hour. Confirm the arrival time on your ticket.
Kilometres, miles or nautical miles?
Distances on this page are given in all three. Aviation uses nautical miles for navigation (1 nautical mile is 1.852 km), but travellers usually compare kilometres or statute miles.
Does this tell me if there is a direct flight?
No. It only measures the distance between two points. To see whether a nonstop flight exists and what it costs, use the flight search linked from your result.