Minnesota-based Gulfstream operator Global Air Charters (GAC) is to plant one tree for every flight it charters. With green aircraft technology not readily available in the charter industry, the company hopes that contributing to reforestation will be a positive first step in mitigating the carbon emissions that result from its operations.

“Some aviation companies choose to purchase carbon credits. It is an intriguing concept, but one that only passes around the costs of emissions while not actively working to offset or eliminate them,” says COO Michael Vanacore-Netz. “We certainly recognise that planting one tree does not fully offset the carbon footprint of a flight. But we hope to build on this programme and encourage our customers to be involved with these efforts as well.”

GAC will plant one tree in a reforestation project for every heavy airframe charter flight it operates. Customers who wish to fly fully carbon neutral may choose to purchase additional tree plantings, and GAC can calculate those costs.

A 5-7 ft deciduous shade tree costs $300, as does a 3-4 ft pine or spruce, while a 5-6 ft pine or spruce costs $400.

GAC will publish photos of the plantings on its website and customers who purchase additional tree plantings will receive pictures of the trees and documentation of the planting location.