- South Korea will require a 1% blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in all departing international flights by 2027.
- Six South Korean airlines, including Korean Air, are starting to use a 1% SAF blend on select international routes this year.
- The government is reviewing tax breaks and incentives to support SAF production.
According to an announcement on Friday, August 30, South Korea aims to ensure that all departing international flights use a 1% blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2027.
The industry and transport ministries detailed the plan as part of the country’s preparation for a carbon offset and reduction scheme. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) will require this scheme starting in 2027.
“As the world’s top exporter of aviation fuel, South Korea needs bold policy support to prepare for the SAF market as a new growth engine,” the ministries said. The statement emphasised the importance of staying ahead of global demand for SAF.
Six South Korean airlines, including the national carrier Korean Air, have begun or plan to mix 1% SAF in the fuel used for a single international route once a week. This step will gradually introduce SAF into regular operations.
SAF offers an alternative to traditional jet fuel. Its production is rooted in renewable sources like agricultural residues and waste feedstocks, and the fuel has the potential to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint.
The ministries cited data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that shows a dramatic rise in global demand for SAF. From just 240,000 tonnes in 2022, demand is expected to reach 18.35 million tonnes by 2030. This sharp increase underscores the need for South Korea to prepare its infrastructure and policies for widespread SAF adoption.
The government will support the oil refining industry in this transition by reviewing additional tax breaks for investments in SAF development. These incentives aim to ease the financial burden of producing SAF, which costs more than conventional jet fuel. By lowering these costs, the government hopes to encourage more widespread use of SAF in the coming years.
The ministries also highlighted the potential economic benefits of leading the SAF market. South Korea can secure a significant share of the growing global market by becoming a key player in SAF production and export. This strategy supports the nation’s environmental goals and boosts its economy.
The ministries, airlines, and the oil refining industry are working closely to ensure a smooth transition in preparation for the ICAO’s 2027 mandate. This collaboration includes developing the necessary infrastructure to produce and distribute SAF on a larger scale.
As the deadline approaches, South Korea is a leader in the global push for sustainable aviation. The government’s proactive approach balances environmental responsibility with economic opportunity, ensuring the country remains competitive in the evolving aviation fuel market.
South Korea’s plan to introduce a 1% SAF blend for all international flights by 2027 reflects its commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector. With strong policy support and industry cooperation, the country aims to play a vital role in the global shift toward sustainable aviation.