background image

Singapore Airlines' emissions rise, climate rules threaten higher costs

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Skift or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Singapore Airlines’ emissions rose over 13% last year to 21.4 million tonnes of CO₂e, according to its latest sustainability report
• Despite this increase, the airline maintains it is on track to meet its 2050 net-zero goal. It attributes the rise to increased flight operations and longer routes due to airspace constraints
• The airline is investing heavily in newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft but acknowledges that upcoming climate regulations could lead to significant cost burdens

🔭 The context: Singapore Airlines has been modernizing its fleet to lower carbon intensity, with a current average aircraft age of under eight years — nearly half the global average
• However, aviation remains one of the most emissions-intensive industries, with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) still scarce and expensive
• The airline also faces financial exposure from international climate frameworks like CORSIA, which mandates carbon offset purchases for emissions above pre-pandemic levels

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The airline’s growing emissions underscore the aviation sector’s challenge in aligning growth with climate targets
• While SAF offers long-term promise with up to 65% lower emissions, current supply limitations hinder rapid transition
• This case highlights the broader tension between travel demand, infrastructure readiness, and the pace of decarbonization, critical for meeting global climate goals

⏭️ What's next: Singapore Airlines anticipates CORSIA compliance could cost around $150 million by 2030 and projects up to $35 million in additional climate-related costs, such as weather-related disruptions
• It will continue fleet renewal and SAF development while also investing in infrastructure resilience, including flood defences at Changi Airport
• Regulatory pressures and market expectations will likely drive more transparency and innovation in its sustainability strategy

💬 One quote: “Our long-term commitment to investing in and operating new-generation aircraft puts us in a strong position,” — CEO Goh Choon Phong

📈 One stat: Singapore Airlines’ carbon emissions rose 13.8% in one year, from 18.8 to 21.4 million tonnes of CO₂e.

See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance of Singapore Airlines and its peers Lufthansa, Emirates, and Qatar Airways

Click for more news covering the latest on sustainable aviation

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team, providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day. Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)