Flight Radiation Calculator
Understand how cruise altitude, latitude, and solar activity affect the amount of cosmic radiation you experience on commercial flights.
Solar activity temporarily changes radiation levels. Check NOAA space weather outlooks before flying.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure your flight time
Use scheduled block time or estimated cruise time between takeoff and landing.
Select cruise altitude
Long-haul jets typically cruise between 33,000 and 41,000 feet.
Pick the route latitude
Polar routes (e.g., NYC to Hong Kong) receive more cosmic radiation than equatorial flights.
Check solar activity
Consult NOAA space weather alerts. Elevated solar activity increases radiation exposure.
Formula
Dose Rate = (0.4 + 0.25 × Altkm1.3) × Route Factor × Solar Factor
Total Dose = Dose Rate × Flight Hours
This approximation fits published cosmic-ray data between 25,000 and 45,000 feet. Route and solar factors adjust for latitude and space weather.
Example: 10-hour polar flight at 37,000 ft during high solar activity:
Altitude = 11.3 km ⇒ Base Rate ≈ 0.4 + 0.25 × 11.31.3 = 6.1 µSv/h
Polar factor = 1.3, Solar factor = 1.25 ⇒ Dose rate ≈ 6.1 × 1.3 × 1.25 = 9.9 µSv/h
Total dose = 9.9 × 10 = 99 µSv (0.099 mSv)
About the Flight Radiation Calculator
Commercial aircrews and frequent flyers are exposed to cosmic radiation at high altitudes. This calculator offers an accessible estimate using simplified models so travelers can monitor cumulative exposure and make informed decisions.
When to Use This Calculator
- Flight planning: Compare radiation exposure for different cruise altitudes or routes.
- Frequent flyer tracking: Monitor annual exposure relative to recommended limits.
- Pregnancy planning: Assess exposure for expectant crew members or passengers.
- Educational purposes: Demonstrate how altitude and latitude influence cosmic radiation.
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Quick estimates: No need for complex software like FAA CARI for first-look assessments.
- ✅ Clear context: Expresses results in µSv, mSv, and percentage of public limits.
- ✅ Route sensitivity: Highlights the extra exposure on polar flights.
- ✅ Free tool: Accessible to travelers, pilots, and educators worldwide.
Common Applications
Airlines: Provide approximate exposure info to crew scheduling departments.
Corporate travel: Compare exposure for different itineraries.
Science classes: Explore atmospheric shielding and cosmic rays.
Tips for Best Results
- Use actual cruise altitude from flight tracking apps when available.
- Check NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center for solar storm alerts.
- Track cumulative annual dose if you fly frequently.
- Consult medical professionals for personalized advice, especially during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this calculator?
It provides a reasonable estimate for planning and education. For regulatory compliance, use detailed tools such as FAA CARI-7, which incorporates real-time geomagnetic data and flight paths.
What is the recommended exposure limit?
The International Commission on Radiological Protection recommends keeping the public below 1 mSv per year above natural background. Aircrew have occupational limits up to 20 mSv annually averaged over 5 years.
Does sitting by the window change exposure?
Window seats offer minimal extra shielding compared to aisle seats. Altitude and latitude are the dominant factors, not seat location.
How does solar activity affect radiation?
Solar storms can increase high-energy particles, temporarily raising onboard radiation. Airlines may reroute polar flights during intense events to reduce exposure.