Seoul, February 27, 2026. Korean Air reduced its CO2 emissions from flight operations by more than 420,000 tons in 2025 through comprehensive fuel management and fleet modernization.

Data from the Fuel Management Steering Committee for the first quarter of 2026 shows that total flight emissions in 2025 were 12,184,169 tons – a 3.3% decrease from 12,604,224 tons in 2024. Notably, this reduction was achieved despite a 2.6% increase in flight movements. 

This reduction is attributable to precise fuel management and the cooperation of all operational areas, including flight control, maintenance, and passenger service.

Key Initiatives
Korean Air implemented several key measures to drive these reductions:

• Fleet Modernization: The deployment of next-generation aircraft – including the Boeing 787-9/10, Airbus A350, and A321neo – was expanded to account for 41.6% of all flights.

• Cruise Speed Optimization: By applying optimized Cost Index (CI) parameters, an ideal balance between flight time and fuel consumption is ensured.

• Payload and Weight Management: More precise predictions of Zero Fuel Weight (ZFW) and optimization of the Center of Gravity (CG) minimize air resistance, thereby reducing fuel consumption.

• Direct Flight Routes: In close coordination with air traffic control, the shortest flight paths are coordinated to reduce distances and flight times.

• Optimal Alternate Airports: By prioritizing ideal alternate airports, the amount of required reserve fuel could be reduced.

• Minimizing APU Usage: The use of the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) on the ground was reduced to a minimum.

• Engine Maintenance: Regular core washing and precision tuning ensure that the maximum efficiency of the propulsion systems is maintained.

AI Integration and Governance
Korean Air manages these measures through a quarterly Fuel Management Steering Committee, which reviews performance and sets future strategies. The airline also drives continuous improvements by encouraging employee-suggested ideas for CO2 reduction.

The transition to an AI-powered digital system has also improved data accuracy. By analyzing the weight of baggage and potable water, the airline was able to enhance the accuracy of its weight forecasts – a technology recognized as a “Data Insight & Pioneer” winner at SkyTeam’s “Aviation Challenge 2025.”

“This reduction was achieved through the organic cooperation of all operational areas and the voluntary participation of our employees,” said a Korean Air representative. “We remain committed to our goal of CO2 reduction and continue our journey towards sustainable aviation.”

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About Korean Air
For over 55 years, Korean Air has been one of the world's top 20 airlines, carrying more than 23 million passengers in 2024. From its global hub at Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN), the airline serves 116 cities in 39 countries across five continents with a modern fleet of 165 aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees.

Korean Air's outstanding performance and its commitment to the highest level of safety and customer service are widely recognized. The airline has received numerous awards, including a 5-star rating from Skytrax and the "Airline of the Year" title from both Air Transport World and Airline Ratings.

Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance and has become one of the largest trans-Pacific airlines through its joint venture with Delta Air Lines. 

For more information about Korean Air, please visit koreanair.com, facebook.com/KoreanAir, Google.com/+KoreanAir_KE, and X @KoreanAir_KE.

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