Korean Air sees operating profit improve

Korean Air reported record first-quarter revenue of KRW 4.5151 trillion for Q1 2026, an increase of KRW 559.2 billion year-on-year. Operating profit rose to KRW 516.9 billion, up KRW 166 billion from the same period last year. Passenger business revenue totalled KRW 2.6131 trillion, up KRW 177.6 billion year-on-year, driven by robust Lunar New Year demand and strong performance on European and transit routes. Cargo business revenue reached KRW 1.0906 trillion, an increase of KRW 36.6 billion year-on-year. Growth was bolstered by expanded fixed-volume contracts and flexible charter operations on high-demand routes in the Americas. In response to ongoing geopolitical volatility impacting fuel prices and exchange rates, Korean Air plans to protect margins by shifting its focus toward overseas and transit demand, offsetting a slowdown in domestic outbound travel. The cargo division will target seasonal volumes and high-growth sectors, including AI-related industries and K-beauty. Korean Air has also introduced company-wide internal cost reduction measures in April, and aims to strengthen its financial structure and build a more resilient foundation for long-term growth. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]