The South Korean government has set a target to reduce carbon emissions at its international airports by 10 percent by 2030. Key measures include expanding the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and improving operational efficiency. This is part of a blueprint for the 2026-2030 period.
The transport, environment, and industry ministries in South Korea have outlined a blueprint for the 2026-2030 period. According to the plan, carbon emissions at the country's international airports, currently at 23.3 million tons, are projected to rise to 29.8 million tons by 2030, a 28 percent increase. The government aims to cut this projection by 10 percent, equivalent to 2.87 million tons.
To achieve this, measures include greater use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), reduced standby times during takeoff and landing, and enhanced airport operational efficiency. International flights departing from Korea will be required to use SAF for at least 1 percent of their fuel, with the share increasing to 3-5 percent after 2030.
Recognizing that SAF costs about three times more than conventional jet fuel, the government plans to introduce financial relief for airlines, such as partial cost subsidies. These steps are expected to support the aviation sector's push toward carbon neutrality.
