By Abbas Nazil
South Korea has announced plans to cut carbon emissions from its international airports by 10 percent by 2030 as part of a broader push to make aviation operations more environmentally sustainable.
The target was outlined in a government report released Sunday, which detailed a coordinated blueprint developed by the transport, environment and industry ministries for the 2026 to 2030 period.
According to the report, carbon emissions at South Korea’s international airports are projected to rise sharply to 29.8 million tons by 2030.
This figure represents an increase of about 28 percent from the estimated 23.3 million tons recorded this year, driven largely by growing air traffic and airport activity.
To counter this rise, the government aims to cut the projected emissions by 10 percent, equivalent to a reduction of approximately 2.87 million tons.
Officials said the reduction would be achieved through a combination of operational improvements and expanded use of cleaner fuels.
A major component of the strategy is the increased adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, which produces lower lifecycle carbon emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
The report stated that international aircraft departing from South Korea will be required to use sustainable aviation fuel for at least 1 percent of their total fuel consumption.
This mandatory share is expected to rise further to between 3 percent and 5 percent after 2030 as supply and infrastructure improve.
In addition to fuel changes, the government plans to reduce emissions by shortening standby times during aircraft takeoff and landing.
Improving overall efficiency in airport operations, including ground handling and energy use, was also highlighted as a key measure.
The report acknowledged that the high cost of sustainable aviation fuel poses a challenge for airlines.
Officials noted that sustainable aviation fuel currently costs around three times more than conventional jet fuel.
To address this issue, the government said it will consider measures to ease the financial burden on air carriers.
These measures may include partial financial assistance to help airlines cover the additional costs associated with using sustainable aviation fuel.
The government stressed that supporting airlines financially is necessary to ensure compliance without undermining the competitiveness of the aviation sector.
The emissions reduction plan reflects South Korea’s broader commitment to meeting its climate goals while balancing economic growth.
A file photo released alongside the report showed Incheon International Airport, the country’s largest aviation hub, highlighting the scale of emissions challenges facing major airports.
Officials said international airports play a crucial role in national emissions and must be part of long-term climate solutions.
They added that aviation decarbonisation will require cooperation between government agencies, airlines and airport operators.
The report concluded that early action on sustainable fuels and efficiency improvements would help South Korea manage rising aviation emissions and align the sector with national climate targets.
