Why Singapore’s push for greener aviation must begin at check-in
The country’s new levy on air travel is not a penalty, but an invitation to help kick-start the sustainable aviation fuel ecosystem
SINGAPORE’S recent move towards greener aviation has met some resistance, as a new levy on air travel – aimed directly at supporting the use of sustainable aviation fuel – will result in higher costs for travellers.
From April 2026, passengers buying tickets for flights departing from Singapore after October 2026 will see a modest surcharge in fares, ranging from as low as S$1 for nearby destinations in economy class to as much as S$41.60 for long-haul premium cabins. Now, every traveller plays a direct role in supporting cleaner air travel.
This approach, unique in its direct passenger levy and centralised purchasing model for sustainable aviation fuel, is Singapore’s most credible path to balancing its competitive role as an air hub with its net-zero climate goals.
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