Korean Air is nearing the finalization of a major $32.7 billion agreement that will significantly expand and modernize its long-haul fleet. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) includes the acquisition of 20 Boeing B777-9 and 20 Boeing B787-10 aircraft, with options for 10 additional aircraft and up to ten spare engines.
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings (CALC) (Hong Kong) has completed the lease of its first Airbus A330-200 to Korean Air, further expanding its widebody aircraft portfolio. The lease agreement, finalized in March 2025, represents a significant milestone for CALC, which has traditionally focused on narrowbody aircraft leasing.
Hanjin Group Chairman Cho Won-tae has officially stated that Air Busan (South Korea) will not be sold as a separate entity, reinforcing the group’s commitment to maintaining its aviation portfolio. Amid speculation about potential restructuring or divestment, Cho’s remarks affirm that Air Busan will remain under Hanjin Group’s control, ensuring stability for the airline.
High Ridge Aviation (Ireland) has announced the acquisition of a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, serial 34814, from ORIX Aviation (Ireland). The aircraft remains under lease to Korean Air, maintaining its operational deployment within the airline’s long-haul fleet.
In the wake of the Korean Air-Asiana Airlines merger, Korea’s Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) have formalized a business agreement to jointly monitor the implementation of corrective measures required as part of the merger approval process. This cooperation aims to ensure fair competition and compliance with aviation regulations following the integration of Korea’s two largest airlines.
Airbus has announced its delivery and order figures for the first two months of 2025, reporting a total of 65 aircraft delivered, which marks an 18% decline compared to the same period last year. This drop is attributed to supply chain adjustments and engine delivery delays, with the company prioritizing deliveries toward the latter half of the year.
Korean Air has launched its first scheduled service with the Airbus A350, operating on routes between Seoul Incheon International Airport and the Japanese cities of Fukuoka and Osaka Kansai. The service is available from January 27, 2025, to March 29, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet operations.
Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship carrier, has successfully secured US$453 million in corporate bond demand forecasting, surpassing its initial target of $137 million by more than threefold. This remarkable interest reflects investor confidence in the airline’s financial stability and growth prospects.
Korean Air, one of Asia’s leading carriers, has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a new Boeing B787-9. The aircraft, identified by serial number 37390, is powered by advanced GEnx-1B engines, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.
Korean Air has announced its decision to proceed with the merger of its three low-cost carriers (LCCs): Jin Air, Air Seoul, and Air Busan. The move comes despite resistance from some Busan-based shareholders, who have voiced concerns about the impact on the local aviation sector and competition.
