Korean Air introduces Airbus A350 to fleet
Korean Air is set to begin operations of Airbus A350-900 beginning from January 27. The first aircraft will operate on the Seoul Incheon-Osaka route twice daily, while a second A350-900 will serve the Seoul Incheon-Fukuoka route once daily.
The A350-900 accommodates 311 passengers, with 28 Prestige Class seats and 283 Economy Class seats.
Prestige Class features a 1-2-1 staggered configuration, ensuring unobstructed aisle access. These seats offer 22 inches (56 cm) of width and extend to 77 inches (195.5 cm) in bed mode, delivering privacy and comfort.
Economy Class features an optimized 3-3-3 layout with ergonomic seats designed to maximize personal space. The seats adapt to passenger movement for enhanced comfort, with a generous 32-33 inch (81-83 cm) pitch and 18-inch (45 cm) width throughout the cabin.
Prestige Class seats are equipped with 18.5-inch displays and touchscreen remote controls for enhanced accessibility. Economy Class features Panasonic’s eX3 entertainment system.
Korean Air has assembled a dedicated team of experienced pilots for A350 operations, selecting veterans with extensive experience across various Airbus aircraft. Flight crews completed six months of intensive training at the Airbus Asia Training Centre in Singapore, including instructor qualification programs to establish in-house training capabilities.
“Our comprehensive training program encompasses high-intensity response scenarios beyond standard protocols, reflecting our commitment to operational excellence,” said a Korean Air representative.
Interestingly, the airline also played a key role in the A350’s development. The aircraft’s three cargo doors – forward, aft, and bulk – were designed and manufactured by Korean Air’s Aerospace Division, demonstrating the company’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Korean Air will continue to expand its fleet with both A350-900 and A350-1000 variants