Overview of Flight Delays in South Korean Airlines
In 2024, a significant 25.7% of flights operated by South Korean airlines were delayed. This statistic represents a concerning trend in the country’s aviation sector, with 174,078 out of 678,489 flights experiencing delays. The Korean Transport Ministry identifies these delays as occurring when a flight departs or arrives more than 15 minutes past the scheduled time. The main reasons cited for these disruptions include increased traffic leading to airport congestion, as well as frequent turbulence and airspace restrictions affecting international flights.
Among low-cost carriers, Air Seoul topped the list with the highest delay rate of 46.6% on international routes. This was closely followed by Eastar Jet and Jin Air with delay rates of 38% and 35.4%, respectively. Domestically, T’way Air experienced the most significant delays at 31.3%, indicating a pervasive issue across both budget and regular airlines in the country.
Recent Safety Incidents in South Korean Aviation
The South Korean airline industry has been marred by tragic incidents recently, raising serious safety concerns. In December 2024, a catastrophic event occurred when a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed during an emergency landing at Muan International Airport, resulting in the loss of 179 lives out of 181 on board. Following this, in January 2025, an Air Busan Airbus A321 caught fire at Busan Gimhae International Airport due to what is suspected to be a thermal runaway in a lithium-ion battery. Fortunately, in this instance, all 175 occupants were safely evacuated.
The frequency and nature of these incidents have put a spotlight on operational safety and maintenance practices. Notably, Jeju Air was also reported to have the highest rate of maintenance-related delays in the first half of 2024, further underscoring potential lapses in safety standards.
Impact on the Aviation Industry and Future Outlook
The rapid expansion of the aviation industry in South Korea post-COVID-19 has stressed the existing airport infrastructure and air traffic control resources. The recent safety incidents and high rates of delays highlight urgent areas for improvement. These issues suggest a need for the national aviation authorities and airline companies to enhance operational standards and invest in infrastructure to ensure safety and efficiency. The industry must address these challenges promptly to restore public confidence and sustain growth in the competitive aviation market.