South Korean regional airports face financial deficits and reduced domestic flights

Regional airports in South Korea are facing significant financial and operational challenges. Data from lawmaker Hwang Hee reveals that nine regional airports, including Yangyang, Muan, and Gwangju, have recorded consecutive operating deficits for five years, with total annual losses rising to 117.2 billion won last year. These losses are currently being offset by profits from Gimpo, Gimhae, Jeju, and Cheongju airports.

Operational capacity is also declining, with flight plans for four major domestic routes—including Gimpo to Gimhae and Jeju to Gimhae—decreasing by approximately 10% compared to last year. Some regional airports have become heavily dependent on single airlines for domestic service.

Additionally, a structural issue has been identified regarding noise compensation. Because landing fee discounts provided to airlines to encourage regional flight expansion are calculated based on actual collected fees rather than original rates, the funds available for noise-affected residents have decreased. Over the past five years, this has resulted in a reduction of approximately 4.5 billion won in support funds for residents near airports such as Jeju and Gimhae.