Korean Air has announced a record revenue of KRW 4.5151 trillion (US$2.98 billion) for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. The airline's operating profit also saw a significant rise, reaching KRW 516.9 billion (US$341.5 million), up 47% year-on-year.
The passenger business contributed KRW 2.6131 trillion to the revenue, benefiting from robust demand during the Lunar New Year and strong performance on European and transit routes. Meanwhile, the cargo division generated KRW 1.0906 trillion, supported by expanded fixed-volume contracts and flexible charter operations, particularly on high-demand routes in the Americas.
In light of ongoing geopolitical volatility affecting fuel prices and exchange rates, Korean Air plans to focus on overseas and transit demand to protect its margins. The airline aims to counteract a slowdown in domestic outbound travel by targeting seasonal cargo volumes and high-growth sectors such as AI-related industries and K-beauty.
Additionally, Korean Air has implemented internal cost reduction measures to strengthen its financial structure and ensure long-term growth. The airline's net income for Q1 2026 was KRW 242.7 billion (US$160.4 million), a 26% increase from the previous year.
Korean Air, a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, continues to expand its global reach, serving 116 cities in 39 countries. The airline's commitment to safety and customer service has earned it numerous accolades, including a 5-star rating from Skytrax
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