The Vietnamese government has officially announced its commitment to join the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) starting in 2026, aligning the country’s aviation sector with global climate standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
CORSIA, launched in 2016, is a market-based mechanism aimed at capping and gradually reducing carbon emissions from international flights. Vietnam’s participation begins during the scheme’s final voluntary phase and reflects a significant step toward its broader decarbonization goals. The country aims to cap emissions at 85% of 2019 levels between 2024 and 2035, with a long-term target of achieving net-zero emissions in aviation by 2035.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, the government has taken several preparatory steps to meet CORSIA requirements. These include drafting regulations on aviation fuel standards and emissions tracking, implementing Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) mechanisms for international flights, and submitting historical emission data from 2019 to 2024 to ICAO.
While ICAO has commended Vietnam for demonstrating strong readiness among developing countries, industry experts warn of substantial financial implications for domestic carriers. Estimates suggest Vietnamese airlines could spend between USD 5.6 million and USD 37.5 million annually on carbon credits, depending on market fluctuations. Over the voluntary phase, total offset costs could reach between USD 13 million and USD 92 million, based on carbon credit prices ranging from USD 6 to USD 40 per metric ton of CO₂-equivalent.
Airlines Respond with Sustainability Investments
Vietnam’s major carriers have already begun preparing for the transition. Vietnam Airlines, buoyed by a strong post-pandemic recovery and successful debt restructuring, reported a record net profit of VND 7.95 trillion (approx. USD 304 million) in 2024. The airline has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing emissions through fleet modernization and greater adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
In 2024, Vietnam Airlines operated its first SAF-blended international flight on the Singapore–Hanoi route, followed by six SAF-powered domestic flights to commemorate World Environment Day.
Low-cost carrier Vietjet Air is also aligning its operations with CORSIA’s goals. In June 2025, the airline finalized a purchase agreement with Airbus for 100 A321neo aircraft. The new jets promise at least 20% improved fuel efficiency and can operate on up to 50% SAF, positioning Vietjet for a more sustainable future.
As Vietnam prepares for full integration into CORSIA, the government continues to explore ways to balance environmental responsibility with economic sustainability, particularly for its aviation industry, which plays a critical role in national connectivity and tourism.
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