Korean Air and Boeing to strengthen predictive maintenance collaboration
Korean Air and Boeing to strengthen predictive maintenance collaboration[Photo] Chan Woo Jung, SVP and Head of Korean Air's Maintenance and Engineering (second from right); Jong Hoon Oh, General Manager and Head of Korean Air's Predictive Maintenance Team (first from right); and Crystal Remfert, Senior Director of Digital Services at Boeing Global Services (third from left), at the partnership signing ceremony in Singapore(Seoul, September 17, 2025) - Korean Air has entered into a strategic partnership with Boeing for enhanced collaboration in predictive maintenance. The agreement was signed at the MRO Asia-Pacific 2025 Conference in Singapore.The initiative builds on Korean Air’s established leadership in the field. The airline formed a dedicated Predictive Maintenance Team in August 2023 and currently utilizes its own in-house developed operational solution, providing a robust foundation for the collaboration.The partnership will focus on advancing data-driven maintenance methodologies. By analyzing fleet-wide operational data to forecast component health, the collaboration aims to enhance operational readiness, maximize aircraft availability, and reduce maintenance costs and flight disruptions, ensuring the highest levels of fleet reliability.“Korean Air has made substantial progress in enhancing fleet reliability through our Smart MRO strategy, specifically by leveraging predictive maintenance. This strategic collaboration with Boeing will build on that success, taking our capabilities to the next level,” said Chan Woo Jung, Senior Vice President and Head of Maintenance and Engineering at Korean Air. “As we continue to expand our fleet, this partnership is key to enhancing our maintenance operations. By working together to integrate additional technologies and define next-generation best practices, we remain focused on ensuring a ready and reliable fleet, promoting our commitment to operational excellence.”“United by a shared mission to leverage predictive maintenance analytics for improved efficiency and fleet reliability, Korean Air’s extensive operational experience pairs well with Boeing’s engineering expertise and advanced technical operations software,” said Crystal Remfert, Senior Director of Digital Services, Boeing Global Services. “We truly value Korean Air’s commitment to this mutually beneficial collaboration.”
2025-09-17Report
Korean Air
Korean Air launches real-time Incheon Airport guidance via mobile app
Korean Air launches real-time Incheon Airport guidancevia mobile app(Seoul, September 12, 2025) - Korean Air has introduced the Incheon Airport Guide feature on its mobile application, providing passengers seamless access to essential real-time information when traveling through Incheon International Airport (ICN).Powered by the Incheon International Airport Corporation’s public Open API, the service delivers live updates on key airport operations. Korean Air flight reservations are automatically synced, while passengers flying with other airlines can access the service by entering their flight details manually.With this new feature, passengers can:Monitor real-time congestion levels at check-in counters, security and immigration checkpointsView parking availability at long- and short-term parking facilities by floorCheck estimated travel times from airport arrival to the boarding gate, broken down by each stage of the journeyLocate Korean Air lounges and view real-time occupancy levels for a more relaxed pre-flight experienceA stand out function is the pickup request service, unique to Korean Air. Passengers can easily share their estimated arrival time and exit door via SMS or messaging apps, making it easier for family and friends to meet them without confusion.“The Incheon Airport Guide feature enhances passenger convenience by bringing tailored airport information directly into our mobile app,” said a Korean Air representative. “We will continue to develop digital solutions that create smoother, more efficient travel experiences for our customers.”
2025-09-12Report
Korean Air
Korean Air to purchase 103 Boeing aircraft plus GE engines, totaling KRW 70 trillion
Korean Air to purchase 103 Boeing aircraft plus GE engines, totaling KRW 70 trillion[Photo 1] (From left) Jungkwan Kim, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, Republic of Korea; Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group; Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes; and Howard Lutnick, United States Secretary of Commerce at thesigning ceremony on August 25(Seoul, August 26, 2025)- Korean Air announced its intent to purchase 103 next-generation aircraft from Boeing, 19 spare engines from GE Aerospace and CFM International, and a comprehensive engine maintenance program with GE Aerospace on August 25.The total investment is valued at approximately USD 50 billion (KRW 70 trillion): USD 36.2 billion (KRW 50 trillion) for Boeing aircraft, USD 690 million (KRW 1 trillion) for 19 spare engines and an additional USD 13 billion (KRW 18.2 trillion) for the 20-year engine maintenance service contract.The agreements were formalized on August 25 at a signing ceremony in Washington D.C, attended by Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group; Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes; and Russell Stokes, President and CEO of Commercial Engines & Services at GE Aerospace.The aircraft purchase order includes 20 Boeing 777-9s, 25 Boeing 787-10s, 50 Boeing 737-10s, and eight Boeing 777-8F freighters. The aircraft are scheduled for phased delivery through the end of 2030.This strategic aircraft acquisition is a proactive measure to support Korean Air's long-term growth following its integration with Asiana Airlines. The airline's investment plan extends into the mid-to-late 2030s, and reflects delivery delays affecting the global aviation industry.Korean Air’s fleet strategy will standardize its long-term operations around five highly-efficient aircraft families: the Boeing 777, 787 and 737, along with the Airbus A350 and A321-neo. This move is expected to ensure a stable capacity growth, achieve economies of scale through fleet simplification, enhance fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the overall customer experience.In addition to the new aircraft, Korean Air will acquire 11 spare engines from GE Aerospace and eight from CFM International. The airline will also receive 20 years of engine maintenance service from GE Aerospace for 28 aircraft, representing a significant investment in operational stability and safety.Korean Air has a long history of fostering close ties between the two countries, beginning with the opening of its first U.S. cargo route (Seoul - Tokyo - Los Angeles) in April 1971 and its first passenger route (Seoul - Tokyo - Honolulu - Los Angeles) in April 1972. This cooperation continues today through its trans-Pacific joint venture with Delta Air Lines.This deal is a strategic choice to strengthen Korean Air’s partnership with the U.S. aviation industry. Korean Air currently collaborates closely with a broad range of U.S.-based aviation companies, including Pratt & Whitney, General Electric (GE), Hamilton Sundstrand and Honeywell.As Korea's leading flag carrier, Korean Air will continue to serve as a vital bridge between the two countries. This strategic investment in the U.S. market will further strengthen the airline’s operational capabilities and global competitiveness, and foster robust commercial ties that will drive sustained growth.
2025-08-26Report
Korean Air
Korean Air unveils newly renovated lounges at Incheon Airport
Korean Air unveils newly renovated lounges at Incheon Airport[Photo 1] David Pacey, Executive Vice President & Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges at Korean Air (fourth from left), and staff taking a commemorative photo at the event(Seoul, August 14, 2025)– Korean Air has completed the first phase of its lounge renewal project at Incheon International Airport, unveiling a fully redesigned Miler Club and Prestige East (Right) Lounge on August 18. In addition, two new Prestige Garden Lounges have opened at the far ends of the terminal, following the airport’s recent expansion.Designed to elevate the pre-flight experience, the revamped lounges feature luxurious interiors, expanded facilities and enhanced dining options. Hotel-style lobbies welcome guests into distinct zones for dining, relaxation, meetings, and wellness. A key highlight is the introduction of “Live Stations,” where chefs from the Grand Hyatt Incheon prepare dishes on-site, bringing an interactive dining element to the lounge experience.■ Live Stations: Gourmet cuisine crafted on-siteThe new Miler Club and Prestige East Lounge will feature open kitchens where guests can watch chefs prepare signature dishes. The curated buffet includes Korean and Western selections, a bakery, and a salad bar.Western offerings include hand-tossed pizzas, freshly baked croissants, and chef-carved beef steak, while Korean specialities range from freshly rolled gimbap made with premium local ingredients to a noodle bar serving tteokguk (rice cake soup) and janchi guksu (banquet noodles). A dedicated bartender crafts cocktails, and in the Miler Club, an in-house barista prepares freshly brewed coffee. Menus will change quarterly to showcase seasonal ingredients.Beyond dining, the lounges offer diversified spaces to accommodate every need, from relaxation to work. Guests can enjoy a wellness area with massage chairs, a tech zone for device use, and a meeting room with a large conference screen. Spacious shower facilities offer private powder rooms and premium amenities.■ Design inspired by Korean eleganceThe interiors blend sophisticated Korean design with modern luxury. A color palette of gold, charcoal, black, and ivory mirrors the Korean Air’s premium cabin aesthetics, while traditional Korean architectural elements including Hanok-inspired structures are seamlessly integrated with modern materials like metal to create a contemporary and sophisticated ambiance.Korean Air partnered with a renowned global interior design firm, known for creating interiors for luxury properties including Four Seasons Seoul and multiple five-star hotels across the Asia Pacific region.Premium wood and marble furnishings create an elegant atmosphere, enhanced by warm ambient lighting. The new layout moves beyond the traditional dining-focused lounge model, with separate areas for full meals and refreshments, giving passengers more flexibility in how they spend their time.■ Two new lounges with Incheon’s Phase 4 expansionThe new Prestige Garden East Lounge and Prestige Garden West Lounge offer a quieter retreat with modern simplicity. The Prestige Garden East Lounge overlooks a traditional Korean-style outdoor garden, while the Prestige Garden West Lounge provides views of a modern Western garden. Both offer a refined selection of food and beverages.■ Full renovations to finish in 2026, enhancing capacity for post-integrationRemaining renovations, scheduled for completion next year, will cover the First Class Lounge, the Prestige East (Left) Lounge, and Prestige West Lounge. During construction, First Class passengers will temporarily use the Miler Club.Upon completion, Korean Air’s total lounge space at Incheon will expand from 5,105 to 12,270 square meters, while total capacity will nearly double from 898 to 1,566 seats. The lounge renewal is part of the airline’s broader infrastructure investment ahead of full integration with Asiana Airlines, ensuring sufficient capacity and premium service for the combined passenger base.[Reference] Korean Air Lounge Map[Photo 2] David Pacey, Executive Vice President & Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges at Korean Air (fourth from left), and staff taking a commemorative photo at the event[Photo 3] Miler Club Lounge Entrance[Photo 4] Miler Club Lounge Live Station[Photo 5] Miler Club Lounge Interior[Photo 6] Prestige East (Right) Lounge[Photo 7] Prestige Garden Lounge
2025-08-14Report
Korean Air
Korean Air and Delta Launch Remote Baggage Screening on Incheon–Atlanta Route
Korean Air and Delta Launch Remote Baggage Screening on Incheon–Atlanta Route(Seoul, August 13, 2025) – Korean Air and Delta Air Lines, partners in a transpacific joint venture, have launched International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS) on their Incheon International Airport(ICN)-Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport(ATL) route, delivering a faster, easier, and more seamless travel experience for customers.With IRBS, checked baggage is X-ray screened at departure in Korea, and images are securely transmitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for remote review before the flight arrives. This eliminates the need for passengers to collect and recheck bags upon arrival in the U.S, reducing connection times by approximately 20 minutes and removing one of the most stressful parts of international travel.For customers, this means:Smoother connections – especially through Atlanta, the world’s busiest airport.Less waiting – no need to queue for baggage recheck or customs.More peace of mind – checked bags automatically transfer to the final destination.Faster start to the journey – arrive in the U.S. and head directly to the next flight or exit the airport.The benefit applies not only to non-stop ICN–ATL passengers but also to those starting their journey in other cities and connecting via Incheon.With nearly 300,000 passengers flying this route each year, the introduction of IRBS is expected to have a significant impact. More than half connect to onward flights via Atlanta. In 2024, 67,000 of 123,000 Korean Air passengers and more than 100,000 of 160,000 Delta passengers transited through Atlanta.“Together with Delta and our partners, we are introducing new initiatives to deliver a seamless passenger experience,” said Kwangho Ko, Senior Vice President at Korean Air. “We will continue to deploy services to maximize convenience and comfort for our customers.”“Through our joint venture with Korean Air, we’re committed to making transpacific travel easier and more enjoyable,” said Jeff Moomaw, Delta’s Vice President for APAC. “This is only the beginning—we aim to bring these benefits to more U.S. destinations from ICN.”Chart comparing process before and after introduction of IRBSIncheon International AirportHartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International AirportFinalDestinationBefore IRBSBag checkArrive in the U.S.Pick up baggageRecheck baggageBoard connecting flightPick up baggage at final destinationAfter IRBSBag check + personal consentSteps skipped(Bag screening via pre-scanned X-ray image)
2025-08-13Report
Korean Air
Korean Air partners with Anduril for autonomous aircraft development in Asia Pacific
Korean Air partners with Anduril for autonomous aircraft development in Asia Pacific[Photo 1]Attendees pose for a commemorative photo at the signing ceremony(Seoul, August 7, 2025) - Korean Air has entered into a partnership with U.S. defense technology company Anduril Industries to jointly develop and produce autonomous aircraft for Korea and the wider Asia-Pacific region.The partnership was announced during Anduril's Korea office launch event in Seoul, hosted by the U.S. Commercial Service and the U.S. Embassy. Key attendees included Jin Kyu Lim, SVP and Head of Korean Air's Aerospace Division and Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril.Following a technical cooperation MOU signed in April 2025, the two companies have now agreed to:Co-develop Korean-type unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) based on Anduril productsLicense-produce Anduril products and any localized variations in Korea for export across the Asia-Pacific regionExplore establishing manufacturing and production capabilities in South KoreaAnduril, a fast-growing U.S. defense technology company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) driven autonomous systems, is known for its Lattice software, an advanced platform that integrates unmanned systems, command-and-control networks, and real-time data analysis. This technology enables rapid battlefield decision-making and mission execution.As a leading Korean UAV developer, Korean Air is expected to accelerate the advancement of its systems through this partnership. Through this agreement, Korean Air would hold rights to license-produce portions of Anduril's defense systems for regional exports."This partnership combines Korean Air's proven expertise in unmanned aircraft systems with Anduril's cutting-edge AI technology," said Jin Kyu Lim, SVP and Head of Korean Air’s Aerospace Business. "This collaboration will enhance our capabilities and represents a significant milestone in the global unmanned systems market."[Photo 2]Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril (left), and Jin Kyu Lim, SVP and Head of Korean Air’s Aerospace Business (right)
2025-08-07Report
Korean Air
Korean Air launches Premium Class on retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER fleet
Korean Air launches Premium Class on retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER fleet(Seoul, August 5, 2025) - Korean Air is introducing Premium Class on its newly retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, with the first flights launching on short- and mid-haul routes starting from mid-September.As part of this launch, Korean Air has invested approximately KRW 300 billion to fully retrofit 11 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with completely redesigned cabins, bringing them in line with the airline’s latest aircraft interiors and onboard technology.Premium Class is positioned between the airline’s Prestige (business) and Economy Class, offering more spacious seating and upgraded service. While pricing varies by route and travel dates, fares are generally around 110% of normal Economy fares.The new cabin features 40 seats in a 2-4-2 layout, designed for greater comfort. Premium Class offers approximately 50% more space than existing Economy Class seats, with a seat pitch of 39 to 41 inches (about 1 meter), offering more space than many premium economy products offered by major global airlines. Seats are 19.5 inches (about 50 cm) wide, recline up to 130 degrees, and come equipped with both leg and footrests. The seats also feature ergonomic headrests for gentle support and include wing-shaped sides to provide a greater sense of privacy from adjacent passengers.Passengers can enjoy an enhanced in-flight entertainment experience with 15.6-inch 4K resolution screens, which are larger than the previous monitors in Prestige Class on the same aircraft.On international routes, Premium Class passengers will enjoy a refined single-tray meal service, including a main course dish, appetizer, and dessert from the Prestige Class menu, served on Armani/Casa tableware. Beverages, including wine, coffee, and tea, are the same as those served in Prestige Class.Premium Class passengers will also benefit from priority ground services, including access to Morning Calm check-in counters, priority baggage handling and Sky Priority boarding.The launch of Premium Class coincides with a complete interior overhaul of the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER fleet. Inspired by the design of Korean Air’s latest aircraft, the updated cabins offer a refreshed, modern experience across all classes. The aircraft now feature Korean Air’s newest seating products including “Prestige Suites 2.0” in a 1-2-1 configuration for Prestige Class, and “New Economy” in a 3-4-3 layout. Wi-Fi is available across all cabins, and in-flight entertainment systems have been significantly upgraded.“We’re committed to bringing the fully redesigned Boeing 777-300ER and new Premium Class to as many customers as possible,” said a Korean Air representative. “This fleet upgrade has been in progress since 2018 and, after delays due to the pandemic, we’re proud to now offer an elevated travel experience that meets our passengers’ evolving needs.”
2025-08-05Report
Korean Air
Korean Air celebrates 30 years of service to Washington, D.C.
Korean Air celebrates 30 years of service to Washington, D.C.(Seoul, July 28, 2025)– Korean Air celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Washington, D.C. route with a special event at Dulles International Airport on July 25.To commemorate the milestone, the airline awarded a complimentary round-trip ticket from Washington D.C. to Seoul Incheon to the 30th passenger checking in for flight KE094. All passengers on the flight received special anniversary gifts, including limited-edition travel pouches.Korean Air launched its Washington D.C. service in July 1995, creating a vital connection between Seoul and the U.S. capital, a key hub for politics, diplomacy and business. Initially operated as a one-stop service via New York, the route became nonstop in 1999, further strengthening economic and cultural ties between Korea and the United States.Since 2008, Korean Air has been the only Korean carrier to operate a daily nonstop flight between Seoul Incheon and Washington, D.C., enhancing connectivity for passengers traveling to and from the U.S. East Coast. The route has been instrumental during major diplomatic events, including Korea-U.S. summits and high-level negotiations, while also serving the region’s growing Korean community in the region since the mid-1990s.“Washington D.C., together with New York and Los Angeles, is one of the key pillars of our U.S. network, serving as a vital hub for premium, diplomatic and business travel,” said Jin Ho Lee, Senior Vice President and Head of Americas Regional Headquarters at Korean Air. “We remain committed to delivering world-class services for our customers.”
2025-07-28Report
Korean Air
Korean Air celebrates 50 years of service between Paris and Seoul
Korean Air celebrates 50 years of servicebetween Paris and Seoul[Photo 1]Group photo with winner of round-trip ticket at 50th anniversary celebration of the Paris-Seoul Incheon route(Seoul, June 5, 2025) - Korean Air has celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Seoul Incheon-Paris route, commemorating five decades of cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges between Korea and France.Launched on March 14, 1975, the route is one of the airline’s longest-standing long-haul services and remains a vital link between the two nations.To mark the occasion, Korean Air hosted a surprise anniversary event at Paris-Charles de Gaulle on June 2. Passengers on flight KE902 received a commemorative gift, and the 50th passenger to check in was awarded a round-trip ticket between Paris and Seoul Incheon.A formal reception followed on June 4 at the Korean Cultural Center in Paris, attended by over 100 guests, including Seung-hyun Moon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to France, partners and representatives of the Franco-Korean community. Korean Air was represented by Jungho Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Passenger Sales, and Hyun Jun Shim, General Manager for France.A historic partnership with AirbusKorean Air's Paris route also reflects a long history of collaboration with European aviation. In the early 1970s, the airline became the first non-European carrier to purchase aircraft from Airbus, which was then a relatively new manufacturer supported by France, the UK, Germany, and Spain.After careful evaluation, Korean Air placed an order for the A300 in 1974. This early partnership contributed to closer aviation ties between Korea and Europe and played a role in broadening the airline’s long-haul capabilities.This relationship also paved the way for a cargo codeshare agreement with Air France, and supported the signing of an air services agreement between the South Korean and French governments. In October 1973, Korean Air launched cargo services to Paris to assess the viability of the route.On March 14, 1975, the airline launched its inaugural European passenger service, connecting Seoul and Paris Orly with 215 passengers and cargo onboard. This marked the beginning of a twice-weekly scheduled service. Since 1982, the airline has operated flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle, France’s main international gateway.With Paris as its first European destination, Korean Air has steadily expanded its presence across the continent, building a robust network that has strengthened Korea-European connectivity.A catalyst for Korea-France relationsOver the past five decades, Korean Air has served as a vital bridge between South Korea and France, fostering economic, diplomatic and cultural exchanges. The airline’s early adoption of Airbus aircraft helped foster industrial collaboration, while its cultural initiatives elevated Korea’s presence on the global stage.In 2008, Korean Air successfully advocated for the introduction of Korean-language audio guides at the Louvre Museum, setting a global precedent that inspired other major institutions such as the Orsay Museum in Paris and the British Museum in London, to follow suit. In recognition of these efforts, Korean Air became the first airline to receive a commendation from South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism that same year. The airline continues to sponsor Korean-language guides at the Louvre and Orsay museums to this day.Korean Air has also stood by the Korean community in France during the COVID-19 pandemic in the early 2020s, maintaining its direct Incheon-Paris flights when most international routes were suspended, ensuring crucial connectivity between the two nations.Looking ahead: strengthening service post-merger“For 50 years, Korean Air has connected Paris and Seoul with a steadfast commitment to service excellence,” said Jungho Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Passenger Sales. “This anniversary is a tribute to our loyal passengers, supportive partners, and our continuous pursuit of quality service. We look forward to continuing this remarkable journey with the French market.”Following its integration with Asiana Airlines, Korean Air plans to further enhance its offerings by introducing new routes, optimizing schedules, and delivering even more tailored services to meet the evolving needs of global travelers.[Photo 2]From left to right: Hyunjun Shim, General Manager for France, Korean Air; Byungji Kim, Vice President of Passenger Sales, Korean Air; Il-Yul Lee, Director of the Korean Cultural Center in Paris; Jungho Choi, Executive Vice President and Head of Sales, Korean Air; Seung-hyun Moon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to France; and Sungsik Jang, Vice President of European Regional Integration Office, Korean Air
2025-06-05Report
Korean Air
Korean Air and Delta Air Lines to strengthen partnerships with WestJet
Korean Air and Delta Air Lines to strengthen partnerships with WestJetKorean Air and Delta to acquire independent equity stakes totaling 25% in WestJet for US$550 million from Onex Partners and its affiliated funds and co-investors (the “Onex Group”)Agreement will further align airlines’ interests, expand customer benefits and strengthen connectivity between Canada and North America, Europe and Asia and beyond(Seoul, May 9, 2025) - Korean Air and Delta Air Lines will strengthen their respective partnerships with WestJet through the purchase of minority equity stakes in the Canadian airline from Onex Partners, the upper middle market private equity platform of Onex, a Canadian investor and alternative asset manager. Affiliated funds and co-investors of the Onex Group intend to participate in the sale alongside Onex Partners. These investments build on each airline’s existing relationship with WestJet to provide further benefits to customers in North America, Europe, Asia and beyond.Under the agreements announced today, Korean and Delta will acquire independent equity stakes totaling 25% in WestJet. Delta will be investing US$330 million and acquiring a 15% stake, and Korean will invest US$220 million in exchange for a 10% stake.Upon closing, Delta has the right and intent to sell and transfer a 2.3% stake in WestJet to its Joint Venture partner Air France-KLM, also an existing WestJet partner, in exchange for US$50 million. This separate transaction would remain subject to certain Air France-KLM approvals. The Onex Group will continue to own and control Calgary, Alberta-based WestJet.Korean and Delta have each been codeshare partners with WestJet for years. The broader partnerships will support future benefits for travelers, including an elevated, more seamless travel experience for customers worldwide.“We are pleased to invest in WestJet as part of our continued commitment to enhancing transpacific connectivity,” said Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Korean Air and Hanjin Group. “This strategic partnership will enhance our global network and create long-term value for customers through greater choice and convenience.”“Investing in a world-class partner like WestJet aligns our interests and ensures that we remain focused on providing a world-class global network and customer experience for travelers in the United States and Canada,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “Together, Delta and our airline partners are connecting the world and transforming the future of travel.”“Delta, Korean and Air France-KLM are among the world’s most prominent and best-managed airlines. Onex is delighted to welcome them as shareholders in WestJet,” said Tawfiq Popatia, Co-Head of Onex Partners.“These investments, and the enhanced partnerships they bring, are an endorsement of our people and WestJet’s differentiated performance through an extraordinary period for aviation in recent years,” said WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech.Korean Air and WestJet have partnered since June 2012, steadily expanding their transpacific connectivity. Through their codeshare agreement, travelers on both sides of the Pacific can access flights between Seoul Incheon and Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, with onward connections to WestJet’s domestic Canadian and U.S. routes, as well as Korean Air’s extensive Asian network.Delta and WestJet have been partners since February 2011, providing an expanded global network and seamless travel options for customers on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border. Delta, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, has proudly been serving the people of Canada for more than 90 years. In recent years, Delta has made equity investments with several international partners, including Air France-KLM, LATAM, Aeromexico, Virgin Atlantic, China Eastern and Korean Air’s parent company, Hanjin KAL.Barclays is acting as financial advisor to WestJet and Onex on the transaction. The agreement is subject to certain regulatory approvals.About Korean AirServing the world for more than 55 years, Korean Air is one of the world's top 20 airlines, carrying more than 23 million passengers in 2024. With its global hub at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the airline serves 117 cities in 40 countries on five continents with a modern fleet of 163 aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees.Korean Air's outstanding performance and commitment to the highest level of safety and customer service has widely been recognized. The airline has been granted numerous awards including a 5-star airline rating from Skytrax as well as Airline of the Year from both Air Transport World and Airline Ratings. Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, and has grown into one of the largest transpacific airlines through its joint venture with Delta Air Lines.For more information about Korean Air, please visit www.koreanair.com, Korean Air Newsroom, facebook.com/KoreanAir, instagram.com/KoreanAirworld and x.com/KoreanAir_KE.About Delta Air LinesThrough exceptional service and the power of innovation, Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) never stops looking for ways to make every trip feel tailored to every customer. There are 100,000 Delta people leading the way to deliver a world-class customer experience on up to 5,000 daily Delta and Delta Connection flights to more than 290 destinations on six continents, connecting people to places and to each other. Delta served more than 200 million customers in 2024 -- safely, reliably and with industry-leading customer service innovation – andwas recognized by J.D. Powerthis year for being No. 1 in First/Business and Premium Economy Passenger Satisfaction. The airline also was recognized as thetop U.S. airline by the Wall Street Journalandas North America’s most on-time airline in 2024 and our people earned the Platinum Award for Operational Excellence from Cirium.About WestJet WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. About OnexOnex invests and manages capital on behalf of its shareholders and clients across the globe. Formed in 1984, we have a long track record of creating value for our clients and shareholders. Our investors include a broad range of global clients, including public and private pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, banks, insurance companies, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. In total, Onex has approximately $51.1 billion in assets under management, of which $8.3 billion is Onex’ own investing capital. With offices in Toronto, New York, New Jersey and London, Onex and its experienced management teams are collectively the largest investors across Onex’ platforms. Onex is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ONEX. For more information on Onex, visit its website at www.onex.com. Onex’ security filings can also be accessed at www.sedarplus.com.
2025-05-12Report
Korean Air
