Doubts grow over economic feasibility of 10 new regional airport projects

The planned construction of additional regional airports in Korea is raising concerns, as many existing ones are currently operating at a loss, putting their management and passenger safety at risk. Critics argue that the introduction of new airports is driven more by political motivations than actual market demand. According to the government, eight new airport construction projects are in various stages in Busan, Daegu, Seosan in South Chungcheong Province and Saemangeum in North Jeolla Province, as well as on Jeju Island, Ulleung Island, Baengnyeong Island and Heuksan Island. Gyeonggi Province, surrounding Seoul, is also considering the construction of two new regional airports — one in Pocheon and another in a location yet to be determined. Many of the airport construction projects that have passed ministerial reviews have already entered the design phase, according to Joo Jong-wan, chief of the Civil Aviation Office under the transport ministry. However, there are rising concerns that these airports will not generate enough demand to sustain their operations financially and ensure proper management. Such worries stem from the current financial conditions of existing regional airports around the country.<br/>