Provided are a method and apparatus for processing an image. The method includes receiving a first luminance image of an image including airlight, which is a type of light that occurs in a foggy environment, and generating an airtight map based on a ratio between an average luminance of the first luminance image, and a standard deviation; and removing the airtight by subtracting the airtight map from the first luminance image and outputting a second luminance image. According to the present invention, airlight components may be effectively removed.