How to Calculate Flight Time
What is Flight Time?
A flight time calculator estimates the duration of a flight based on great-circle distance and typical cruise speed. Block time adds the taxi, takeoff, and landing overhead to the pure air time.
Formula
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Air Time = Distance ÷ Cruise Speed
- 2Commercial jets cruise at 870–950 km/h (540–590 mph)
- 3Block Time = Air Time + ~45 min for taxi and ATC overhead
- 4Actual time varies with headwinds, tailwinds, and routing
Worked Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flight Time?
A flight time calculator estimates the duration of a flight based on great-circle distance and typical cruise speed. Block time adds the taxi, takeoff, and landing overhead to the pure air time
How accurate is the Flight Time calculator?
The calculator uses the standard published formula for flight time. Results are accurate to the precision of the inputs you provide. For financial, medical, or legal decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.
What units does the Flight Time calculator use?
This calculator works with inches, kilometres, miles per hour, kilometres per hour. You can enter values in the units shown — the calculator handles all conversions internally.
What formula does the Flight Time calculator use?
The core formula is: Air Time = Distance ÷ Cruise Speed. Each step in the calculation is shown so you can verify the result manually.
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