The International Energy Agency has some startling figures on the environmental impact of aviation. In 2023, aviation emissions escalated to 950 million metric tons of CO2. It is more than 90 percent of the levels before the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel demand expected to rise in the coming years, managing the sector’s carbon footprint has become essential.
While we cannot avoid taking a plane to faraway destinations, there are other ways to enjoy the flying experience—enthralling yet sustainable options.
Humanity’s age-old dream of flying with wings may not be achievable yet, but you can soar in the skies in interesting ways. For eco-conscious travelers—which all of us should endeavor to become—these avenues are the definition of slow, satisfying bliss.
Here are four exciting ideas to fly without damaging the biosphere in the process.
1. Sail the Skies on a Seaplane
Have you been in a seaplane before? They are popular in coastal countries like the Maldives to transport visitors across islands. But you can also ride in a seaplane closer to home, in places like Vancouver, British Columbia. The UK is also planning commercial seaplane services to further its zero-emission goals.
What makes seaplanes much more environment-friendly than traditional aircraft is their ability to use water-based runways. Often, they use electric and hybrid propulsion for mobility, which releases fewer emissions into the atmosphere. Many companies are exploring electric seaplanes with zero-emission to minimize environmental impact.
The use of seaplanes also allows travelers to explore remote locations in nature-friendly ways that don’t affect the local species and communities.
2. Go Up in a Hot Air Balloon
Flying in a balloon is another enduring dream for many, perhaps originating from the joyful stuffed rabbits and bears in the toy balloons of our childhoods. It is a dream you can achieve on your next vacation while meeting your sustainable travel goals.
For example, a hot air balloon ride in California can allow you to enjoy the gorgeous views of Napa Valley’s wine country from above. Add coffee, pastries, and sunrise views to the mix, and you have an experience to cherish forever. Balloon rides don’t release toxic pollutants into the air since they use propane, a relatively clean fuel.
This flying option is considered safe for different types of travelers. Recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations have made it more so. They require pilots to have medical certificates and mandate more frequent aircraft inspections. According to Balloons Above the Valley, travelers should prioritize safety and comfort by selecting reliable, customer-centric providers.
Ongoing research perseveres to make ballooning more sustainable by using solar-powered and electric options. We may soon see hot air balloons steered by non-perishable energy sources, like the sun and wind.
3. Let a Blimp Buoy You in the Sky
Blimps have captured global attention for their ability to fly with lower fuel requirements. Their reliance on buoyancy has given them the alluring name of “airships.”
Typically, blimps use ultralight nylon and helium instead of flammable hydrogen. Shortly, they may be able to fly with electric engines, potentially becoming a zero-carbon approach to air transport.
Another benefit of flying in a blimp is being able to open a window and be more comfortable. It can be helpful for anyone with airsickness or a fear of heights, as airships fly at a much lower altitude.
In 2024, BBC reported exciting developments in this space, with some providers planning luxurious airship trips from Svalbard to the North Pole. Such trips enjoy logistical and infrastructural advantages as blimps don’t need airports and can land on any flat surface.
4. Pick Paragliding Over Parasailing
Gliding over beautiful forests and feeling the wind on your face—is a thrill unlike any other. Paragliding has been a popular tourist activity for decades, offering an experience closest to flying like a bird. It is also a sustainable pursuit since you rely on air currents to move forward.
On the other hand, parasailing has a considerable environmental impact as it requires a motorboat for propulsion. It also generates substantial noise and disturbs marine life. Even from an enjoyment perspective, while parasailing can feel safer, it is also somewhat passive. You cannot feel in control of your flight like a paraglider.
Although we occasionally find media reports of accidents, paragliding should be safe as long as you work with an experienced instructor and follow the instructions. The Guardian has a delightful story of an 80-year-old woman who tried paragliding to feel free and weightless. She went parasailing again when she turned 85.
While this activity is generally considered eco-friendly, tourists should ensure that they stick to the designated routes and refrain from disturbing the local flora and fauna. You can further minimize your carbon footprint by using a green transportation option to the site, like a bicycle.
It is fabulous when long-held dreams have a way of reaching fulfillment, especially in ways that align with your principles. Today, you can explore the expanse of the sky for travel, leisure, or to find perspective in life. Everything seems different when you look at it from up above.
Which of these flying experiences are you most excited to try?
Image: Unsplash, Chait Goli
