Aircraft mission cost calculator
Estimate flight fuel costs, maintenance and engine reserves, fixed-cost allocation, and cost per passenger. Change the inputs to update the chart or diagram.
Your inputs
The editable example is illustrative. Enter your own dimensions, operating data, prices, and fees. Results update as you edit.
Calculations run in your browser. Inputs are not saved or sent to analytics.
How it works
- Flight time = ÷ × (1 + ÷ 100)
- Fuel consumed = Flight time × +
- Allocated fixed costs = Flight time × ÷
- Estimated mission cost = Variable mission costs + Allocated fixed costs
- Worked example: A 300 nmi flight at 150 kn with 10% extra time takes 2.2 hours. At 12 USgal/h plus 2 USgal for taxi, fuel consumed is 28.4 USgal. A separate 45-minute reserve adds 9 USgal to the required load.
- Flight time = 300 ÷ 150 × 1.10 = 2.2 h; Fuel consumed = 2.2 × 12 + 2 = 28.4 USgal; Fuel including reserve = 28.4 + 12 × 45 ÷ 60 = 37.4 USgal.
Input and formula key
Your result
Complete the inputs to see your result.
Assumptions and limitations
Use average ground speed and measured fuel consumption. All fuel quantities and prices use the selected unit. Reserve time is an editable assumption, not a regulatory recommendation. Reserve fuel is carried but excluded from fuel consumption cost. Annual fixed costs are allocated using flight hours; omitted costs are not inferred.
Sources
- NIST — SI conversion factors Sources reviewed: 2026-10-05
