But this love affair has an environmental cost. While aviation currently accounts for approximately 4% of greenhouse gases, scientists believe that figure will rise to over 60% by the year 2050.
A BBC Two programme, Should I Really Give Up Flying? takes a new look at air tourism and its impact on the environment, which should help viewers make up their minds about their own flying habits.
Presenters Ginny Buckley and Max Flint report from around the world and reveal the effects of climate change on some of the world's favourite destinations.
From the beautiful city of Venice, vulnerable to rising sea levels, to prolonged drought and soaring temperatures in Spain.
They also explore the impact that the explosion in budget airlines could have on the environment, talking to two entrepreneurs keen to corner the potentially huge Indian middle-class market for cheap flights.
Brian Blessed discovers aviation's importance to the economy. His old RAF base at Finningley, now Robin Hood International Airport, has given Doncaster an enormous boost after years of decline.
The programme takes a look at the very latest in aviation and fuel advances designed to make taking to the skies more eco-friendly. It also includes an insight into a revolutionary solar-powered plane and Sir Richard Branson's ideas for solving the emissions problem.
Should I really Give Up Flying? will be broadcast on Wednesday, 24 January 2007 at 21:00 GMT on BBC Two.
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