On October 30, CAPA – Centre for Aviation, an aviation marketing intelligence provider, named Korean Air “Asia Airline of the Year.” The airline received the award in Singapore, at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit – Asia & Awards for Excellence.
How Korean Airlines earned the award
CAPA gives the award to “the Asian airline that has demonstrated exceptional strategic leadership and had the greatest impact on the regional industry.” CAPA’s panel of judges made the selection based on Korean Air’s “comprehensive management of the Asiana Airlines acquisition and the detailed strategic plan for the merged airline.” The organization noted the effect of the acquisition Korean Air, and the transformation across branding, aircraft liveries, in-flight product, network planning, and IT systems.
“Being awarded Asia Airline of the Year by CAPA is a meaningful validation of our entire team’s dedication during this historic period of transformation,” said Taejoon Kim, SVP and Head of International Affairs and Alliances at Korean Air. “We are fully committed to the successful integration of our airlines, with a clear focus on building a sustainable, top-tier global carrier that will set new standards for customer experience and enhance the regional aviation network.”
During the event, Korean Airlines took part in a panel discussion celebrating SkyTeam’s 25th anniversary. Topics included the positive outcome of the trans-Pacific joint venture with Delta, the importance of global alliances, and how the Incheon hub will serve as the alliance’s gateway to Asia.
Korean Air continues with its post-merger process, which it aims to complete by January 2027. This most recent accolade follows 2025 awards for Airline of the Year by AirlineRatings.com and Best Cabin Service from the APEX Best Awards.
