Korean Air has announced plans to acquire the remaining 80% stake in Korean Air C&D Service from Hahn & Company. This buyback will restore the airline’s full ownership of in-flight catering and duty-free retail operations.
The transaction to acquire 5,010,343 shares, estimated at KRW 750 billion (approximately €435bn), was approved by Korean Air’s Board of Directors on March 12. After the agreement is finalised, Korean Air C&D Service will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary.
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By bringing these essential services back in-house, the airline aims to guarantee a stable supply of in-flight meals and strengthen overall service competitiveness ahead of the upcoming launch of the integrated airline. Additionally, Korean Air plans to roll out upgraded in-flight duty-free offerings to further enhance the passenger experience.
Korean Air previously divested an 80% stake in its in-flight catering and duty-free business to Hahn & Company in 2020 to secure liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic, retaining a 20% share. With this acquisition, Korean Air successfully reclaims a core pillar of its customer service operations.
