Korean Air has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Shell to obtain sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from 2026.
The arrangement, which will run for five years, covers SAF at major airports in the Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, says Korean.
It adds that it will work with Shell in regard to obtaining SAF in other regions, namely Europe and the USA.
“SAF has surfaced as an important carbon reduction tool in the aviation industry to cope with global climate change, and efforts to boost SAF production and distribution has gained momentum from targeted investment and policy support in the U.S. and the EU,” says Korean.
“However, with shortage of production facilities, and high costs, supply falls short of expected demand.”
The carrier has already conducted flights using SAF, including a November 2017 flight from Chicago and a February 2022 flight from Paris, both of which landed in Seoul Incheon.
In addition, Korean is working with local firms regarding SAF in South Korea. It also has an MOU with Incheon International Airport, Airbus, and Air Liquide to explore the development of hydrogen fuel infrastructure in South Korea.
