Why this is useful
Flight distance helps you estimate flight time, compare routes, check frequent-flyer earning bands and understand jet lag on long-haul trips.
How it is calculated
Great-circle distance between the two airports' coordinates (the shortest path over the Earth's surface). The rough flight time assumes about 800 km/h plus 30 minutes for take-off and landing.
Worked example
London Heathrow to New York JFK comes out at roughly 5,540 km (about 3,440 miles), or around 7.5 hours — actual scheduled times vary with winds and routing.
Common mistakes
- Expecting the flown distance to match exactly — real routes bend around airspace and weather.
- Using the rough time instead of the airline's schedule when planning a connection.
- Forgetting that eastbound and westbound flights take different times because of jet streams.
Questions
Why is my airport not listed?
The calculator covers 34 major hub airports. For other airports, pick the nearest hub for a close estimate.
Is this the distance airlines use for miles?
Many programmes use great-circle distance, but rules differ. Check your loyalty programme's own earning chart.