Air Busan

Air Busan is a vibrant representative of South Korean civil aviation, proudly bearing the name of the country's maritime capital. The airline positions itself as a "Smart" low-cost carrier (LCC), offering passengers an optimal combination of affordable prices and the high level of comfort typically associated with traditional airlines. It is the ideal choice for travelers wishing to start their exploration of Korea from the southern coast or to travel from Busan to popular Asian cities. Friendly service and punctuality have made Air Busan a favorite among many tourists in the region.

History and Philosophy

Founded in 2007 as a subsidiary of the major holding Asiana Airlines, Air Busan aimed to improve transport accessibility in the Yeongnam region. Over the years, the carrier has not only strengthened domestic connections but also become a reliable bridge between Korea and neighboring countries. The company's mission is to become the "friendliest airline," ensuring safety and sincere care for every passenger.

Route Network

Air Busan's flight geography covers key destinations in East and Southeast Asia. Domestically, the most popular routes connect the mainland with the resort island of Jeju City, as well as regular services to the capital, Seoul. This allows tourists to easily combine beach holidays with sightseeing programs in the metropolises.

The international network is particularly well-developed towards Japan: the company's aircraft frequently fly to cities such as Fukuoka, Osaka, Tokyo, and Sapporo. For lovers of tropical vacations, direct flights are available to Cebu City and Tagbilaran in the Philippines, the Vietnamese cities of Da Nang and Nha Trang, as well as Bangkok. Flights are also operated to Taipei and Kaohsiung.

Fleet and Safety

The Air Busan fleet consists of modern aircraft from the Airbus family — A320 and A321 models, including the latest Neo modifications. Using a unified fleet allows for maintaining high standards of technical maintenance and efficiency. The airline prioritizes flight safety, regularly undergoing international audits and implementing advanced monitoring systems, which is confirmed by the absence of serious incidents in its history.

Contacting Air Busan representatives is quite simple, regardless of whether you are already in Korea or just planning your trip. The airline offers convenient digital services for booking management, as well as telephone support for prompt issue resolution. Below are the main ways to contact the carrier.

Official Website

The most up-to-date information on flights and carriage rules can be found on the airline's official portal. An English version of the site is available for international tourists: en.airbusan.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: en.airbusan.com
• Reservation Center (International Line): +82-70-7997-3060 (for calls from abroad)
• Reservation Center (In Korea): 1666-3060 (without country code if you are in South Korea)
• Customer Support / Email: The company recommends using the "1:1 Inquiry" form in your personal account on the website for a guaranteed response.
• Mobile App: "AIR BUSAN" — available for download on the App Store and Google Play. It allows you to buy tickets and complete online check-in.

Social Media

You can follow the carrier's news, promotions, and special offers on their official pages:

• Instagram: @airbusan
• YouTube: Air Busan Official
• Facebook: airbusan

Offices and Representatives

The head office and main service counters of the airline are located at the base airport:

• Headquarters: 6, Yutongdanji 1-ro 57beonga-gil, Gangseo-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea.
• Gimhae Airport (Busan): Air Busan check-in and service counters are located in the international and domestic departure terminals.
• Incheon Airport (Seoul): Branded check-in counters are located in the departure zone (please check the counter number on the display board as it may change).

Important Information

Please note that the telephone support service operates on Korean time (usually from 09:00 to 18:00). 24-hour support in English may be limited, so for urgent changes, it is recommended to use the functionality of the mobile app or website. Contact details may be updated, so we advise verifying the information in the "Service Center" section on the official resource before calling.

Preparing for a flight with Air Busan begins with smart packing. To ensure your journey goes smoothly and airport check-in doesn't take extra time, it is important to familiarize yourself with baggage regulations in advance. The airline adheres to clear rules that may vary depending on the selected fare and destination.

Cabin Baggage: What You Can Take on Board

Every Air Busan passenger is entitled to bring one piece of cabin baggage on board free of charge. This rule applies to all service classes. The weight of the bag must not exceed 10 kg. The maximum permissible dimensions are 55 x 40 x 20 cm (total of three dimensions not exceeding 115 cm), including handles and wheels.

In addition to the main bag, you are allowed to take one small personal item that can be placed under the seat in front of you. This can be:

• A handbag or briefcase;
• A laptop in a case;
• A small bag with Duty Free purchases;
• An umbrella or walking stick.

Please note that both items (the main bag and the personal item) must collectively fit within the 10 kg weight limit. If your cabin baggage exceeds the standards, it will have to be checked in at the boarding gate for an additional fee.

Checked Baggage

The free checked baggage allowance on Air Busan depends on your ticket type and route. The airline often uses the "weight concept" for Asian destinations. Here are general guidelines:

• Domestic Flights (e.g., to Jeju City or Seoul): Standard fares usually include 15 kg of baggage.
• International Flights: Most "Smart" and "General" fares include 15 kg. On some longer routes, the allowance may be increased to 20-23 kg.
• Promo Fares (Event/Special): Be careful when purchasing the cheapest tickets during promotions. Often, they do not include free baggage, and it must be paid for separately.

Infants (under 2 years) without a separate seat are usually allowed to transport a collapsible stroller or car seat free of charge.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your items weigh more than allowed, you will have to pay for the excess weight. The cost is calculated for each extra kilogram and depends on the flight zone (domestic flight, Japan, Southeast Asia, etc.). You can pay for extra weight directly at the airport, but it is much more economical to purchase a baggage package in advance — online via the Air Busan website or mobile app. Pre-paid Baggage can save up to 40% compared to airport rates.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Special conditions apply for transporting non-standard items:

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, or diving gear are transported for a separate fee. However, if the total weight of the equipment and your suitcase falls within the free allowance, the additional charge may not be levied (depends on the specific type of equipment, recommended to verify before departure). Bicycles and surfboards always require special handling and payment.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (violin, ukulele) can be taken into the cabin instead of carry-on baggage if they fit in the overhead bin (dimensions up to 115 cm). For large instruments (cello, guitar) that you wish to transport in the cabin, you must purchase a separate ticket for the adjacent seat. When checking in, the instrument must be packed in a hard protective case.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety reasons, the contents of your bags are strictly regulated. It is forbidden to place the following in checked baggage:

• Lithium batteries (including Power Banks) and electronic cigarettes — these can only be carried in cabin baggage.
• Lighters and matches (one lighter per person is allowed on your person).
• Valuables, money, documents, and fragile electronics (the airline is not responsible for their safety in the cargo hold).

Tips for Efficient Packing

To avoid stress at the airport, weigh your suitcases at home before leaving. If you are flying as a group or family, remember that baggage pooling is only possible when passengers flying on the same booking check in simultaneously. Be sure to remove old baggage tags and attach a tag with your name and contact details to every suitcase — this helps locate items faster in case of loss.

Pet travel regulations are an important topic for those not ready to part with their beloved pets even in the sky. Air Busan is a pet-friendly airline, allowing the transport of dogs, cats, and pet birds. The carrier strives to ensure the safety and comfort of furry passengers but imposes strict preparation requirements to ensure the flight goes smoothly for everyone.

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel next to their owner in the aircraft cabin. This is the calmest option for the animal, but it requires adherence to strict limits.

• Carrier Dimensions: The sum of three dimensions must not exceed 115 cm. For soft carriers, the height must not exceed 26 cm (to fit under the seat).
• Maximum Weight: Up to 7 kg (total weight of the animal together with the carrier).
• Allowed Animals: Dogs, cats, and pet birds older than 8 weeks.
• Restrictions: The animal must fit comfortably inside the container.
• Limit per Passenger: One adult passenger may transport only one pet in the cabin.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

If your pet weighs more than 7 kg, it will fly in a special section of the cargo hold where the necessary temperature and pressure are maintained.

• Container Requirements: A hard cage (plastic/metal) with a secure lock, ventilation on three sides, and a waterproof bottom.
• Weight and Size Restrictions: Maximum weight including the cage — up to 32 kg. Sum of three dimensions of the container — up to 246 cm.
• Temperature Restrictions: If the air temperature at the departure or arrival airport is extremely low or high, transport may be refused for the animal's safety.
• Documents: You are required to fill out a pet transport pledge at the check-in counter.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For very large dogs or special cases, shipment via the cargo terminal is provided.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 32 kg or if the cage dimensions exceed standard baggage limits.
• Special Requirements: Stricter rules regarding cage construction (wooden or reinforced metal).
• Booking Procedure: Arranged separately through the Air Busan cargo department, requires filing a declaration.

Necessary Documents

Without the correct package of documents, the pet will not be allowed on the flight. Prepare in advance:

• Veterinary passport with vaccination records.
• Health certificate (usually valid for 10 days before departure).
• Valid rabies vaccination (administered not less than 30 days and not more than a year before departure).
• For international flights: International veterinary certificate and quarantine documents (requirements depend on the destination country).

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is always paid for additionally. Prices may change, but the general structure is as follows:

• Cabin Transport: Fixed fee (approximately from 20,000 KRW on domestic flights to higher amounts on international ones).
• Cargo Hold Transport: The cost is higher and depends on the flight zone and weight.
• Payment Currency: In Korean airports, payment is in Won; abroad, it is in local currency or US Dollars according to the exchange rate.

Preparation Tips

Flying is stressful for an animal. Help your friend handle it more easily:

• Carrier Requirements: Introduce your pet to the cage a few days before the flight so they feel safe inside.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal at least 2–4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness. Water can be given, but in moderation.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad on the bottom. Do not give sedatives without a strict recommendation from a veterinarian, as they can affect blood pressure at altitude.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic dogs (pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese) are often prohibited in the cargo hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Aggressive Animals: Fighting breeds (Rottweilers, Pitbulls, Tosa Inu) and their mixes may not be admitted for transport.
• Condition: Pregnant females, animals with an unpleasant odor, or obviously sick individuals.
• Exceptions: Service guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities are transported free of charge in the cabin (provided they are muzzled and have documentation).

Important: The number of spaces for animals on each flight is strictly limited. We strongly recommend booking the service in advance via the Air Busan call center and verifying current rules immediately before departure.

The Air Busan loyalty program stands out for its simplicity and originality, distinguishing itself from traditional mileage systems. Instead of complex mile calculations, the carrier offers an intuitive "stamp" accumulation system called Air Busan Stamp. It is a transparent scheme allowing passengers to easily track their progress and exchange accumulated points for real travel.

Membership Levels and Privileges

Unlike major alliances with multi-tiered hierarchies, Air Busan focuses on accessibility for all passengers. The privilege system here is more democratic:

• Basic Member: Assigned immediately after registration. Allows you to accumulate stamps for every flight and manage bookings via a personal account.
• Active Traveler: As stamps accumulate, the member gains the opportunity to exchange them for free tickets. The main advantage is the absence of complex conditions: the more you fly, the faster you get a reward.
• VIP Status: For frequent flyers, the airline may provide special conditions, such as access to the branded Air Busan Lounge at Busan Airport (international departure terminal).

How to Accumulate Stamps

The accumulation process is simplified to the maximum and tied to the fact of flying:

• Flights: You receive stamps for each flight segment. The number of stamps awarded depends on the destination. For example, domestic flights (to Jeju City or Seoul) usually earn fewer stamps than international flights to Tokyo or Da Nang.
• Website Purchase: Booking tickets directly through the official website or the airline's mobile app often yields more stamps compared to purchasing through agents.
• Promotions: Promo campaigns are held periodically, during which you can earn double stamps on certain routes, for example, during the launch of new flights.

How to Spend Accumulated Stamps

Using the loyalty program is focused on obtaining concrete benefits — free flights:

• Bonus Ticket: This is the main way to spend. You can exchange a certain number of stamps for a one-way or round-trip ticket.
• Seat Availability: Bonus tickets can be issued even during peak season, although their cost in stamps may be higher.
• Important Condition: Stamps cover only the airfare. Fuel surcharges and airport taxes are paid separately by the passenger in cash.
• Transferring Points: In some cases, transferring stamps to family members registered in the system is permitted.

Alliance Participation and Partnerships

Although Air Busan is a subsidiary of the major carrier Asiana Airlines, it functions as an independent low-cost carrier:

• Status: The airline is not a direct member of Star Alliance or other global alliances.
• Code-sharing: On some routes, Air Busan operates joint flights with its parent company Asiana Airlines, which expands connection possibilities, but point accrual rules in such cases need to be verified individually.

How to Join the Program

You can become a program member in just a couple of minutes:

• Visit the official Air Busan website or download the mobile app.
• Select "Sign Up".
• Fill out the form in English and confirm your email.
• Immediately after registration, you will receive a unique membership number and can start accumulating stamps from your very first flight.

Air Busan positions itself as a "Smart LCC" (Smart Low-Cost Carrier), offering passengers a balance between affordable pricing and comfort that often exceeds budget airline standards. On board, you can expect renowned Korean hospitality, clean cabins, and a clear set of services allowing you to pay only for what you truly need.

Travel Classes

Unlike traditional major airlines, Air Busan uses a single-class cabin layout (Economy) on most of its aircraft. However, the company offers a flexible fare and seat selection system that allows you to enhance your comfort level:

• Standard Economy: Basic seating in comfortable chairs. Thanks to the smart configuration of the Airbus A320 and A321 cabins, the seat pitch on Air Busan is often around 31–32 inches, which is more spacious than many low-cost competitors.
• Preferred Seats: For an additional fee, passengers can select seats in the front rows (Front Seat) for quick disembarkation upon arrival or seats at emergency exits (Exit Row) with extra legroom.

Seat Configuration and Amenities

The airline's fleet consists of narrow-body Airbus family liners with a 3-3 seat layout (three seats on the left and three on the right of the aisle). The interior is designed in calming blue tones, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

• Seats: Ergonomic seats with reclining backrests. Newer A321neo aircraft feature modern slim seats providing more knee space.
• Power Outlets and USB: On the newest liners (especially Neo and LR models) operating longer flights, for example to Bangkok or Cebu City, USB ports or universal outlets for charging gadgets may be available under the seats. On older aircraft, this option may be absent, so it is recommended to bring a portable battery (Power Bank).

Food and Beverages

Air Busan's gastronomic concept has shifted from free meals to a "Buy on Board" system and pre-ordering, which is typical for modern budget airlines.

• Air Busan Café: A paid café operates on board where you can purchase snacks, ramen (instant noodles), light bites, soft drinks, and coffee. Payment is usually accepted in Korean Won (cash) or credit cards from international payment systems (Visa/Mastercard).
• Pre-ordered Meals: For those wanting a full meal, a hot meal pre-order service is available via the website no later than 72 hours before departure. The menu includes Korean classics (such as Bulgogi or Bibimbap), as well as sandwiches and children's sets. This is an excellent option for medium-haul flights, for example, to Nha Trang or Da Nang.
• Water: Generally, drinking water is provided free of charge upon request, but rules can change, so having your own bottle of water (purchased after security check) is advisable.

In-Flight Entertainment

Air Busan aircraft are usually not equipped with individual screens in seatbacks. The entertainment program is based on the "Bring Your Own Device" principle:

• Fly & Fun Magazine: In the seat pocket, you will find an in-flight magazine with interesting travel articles, route maps, and a Duty Free catalog.
• Duty Free: On international flights, you can purchase cosmetics, perfumes, and souvenirs at duty-free prices.
• Streaming System (on some aircraft): On some planes, a local Wi-Fi network may be available to connect to an entertainment portal with movies and music via your smartphone or tablet. Global internet access is generally not provided.

Special Services

Air Busan strives to be accessible to all categories of passengers and offers a wide range of assistance services (ordered in advance via the call center):

• For Families with Children: Seat belts for infants are provided on board. Restrooms are equipped with changing tables. Collapsible strollers can be checked at the gate (Gate Delivery) and retrieved immediately after landing. A service for unaccompanied minors traveling without adults is also available.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Airport escort service, assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as the ability to transport a personal wheelchair (in baggage) and use an onboard wheelchair for moving around the cabin are provided.
• Pregnant Women: Special care and priority boarding for expectant mothers. Be sure to check medical certificate requirements depending on the stage of pregnancy before flying.

Traveling with Air Busan is a combination of Korean practicality and attention to detail, making the flight a pleasant part of your vacation, whether it's a short flight to Osaka or a longer journey to tropical beaches.

Air Busan's route network is centered around its main hub in the city of Busan, from where regular flights depart to key tourist and business centers in Asia. The airline ensures stable connections between major South Korean cities and also offers convenient flights to Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and other countries in the region. Below is a list of the carrier's most in-demand routes.

To ensure your journey with Air Busan is as comfortable and cost-effective as possible, it is worth considering several features of this Korean carrier's operations. As a hybrid-type airline (combining low-cost and classic service), Air Busan offers excellent opportunities to save money without sacrificing quality if you plan your trip wisely.

Best Time to Book and Finding Low Fares

Like most budget airlines, Air Busan's ticket prices are dynamic and depend on flight occupancy. To catch the best deals, follow these rules:

• The 3-Month Rule: For international flights, for example to Fukuoka or Da Nang, it is optimal to book tickets 2–3 months before departure. For domestic flights between Seoul and Busan, prices often remain stable until 3–4 weeks before the departure date.
• Early Bird and FLY & SALE: The airline regularly holds large-scale "Early Bird" sales, which usually open 3–4 months before the start of the season (summer or winter). Discounts can reach 70%, but the number of seats is limited.
• Avoid Holidays: Korean national holidays (Chuseok, Lunar New Year) and the summer vacation season (end of July — early August) are times of peak demand. Tickets for the popular route to Jeju City sell out instantly on these dates, and prices are at their maximum.

Mobile App and Digital Services

Experienced travelers strongly recommend downloading the official Air Busan app before your trip. This is your main tool for managing your flight:

• Exclusive Coupons: Special discount coupons (Mobile App Only) that are not on the website are often available in the app.
• Baggage Management: If you realize your suitcase is heavier than the allowance, purchase extra baggage via the app at least 24 hours before departure — it is cheaper than paying at the airport.
• Notifications: Enable push notifications to be the first to know about flight delays or gate changes.

Online Check-in and Seat Selection

The check-in procedure at Air Busan is simple but has its nuances depending on the flight type:

• Opening Time: Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure for international flights and closes 60–90 minutes prior. On domestic flights, you can check in even on the day of departure up to 30 minutes before takeoff.
• Self-Service Kiosks: If you are departing from the hub in Busan (Gimhae Airport) or from Gimpo/Incheon airports, use the Self Check-in kiosks to avoid queues at counters.
• Seat Selection: When purchasing the cheapest fares, seat selection is paid. However, if you check in online as soon as it opens, you have a chance to select remaining available seats for free (except for premium rows). For those who value speed, we recommend paying for seats in the front section (Front Seat) in advance to be the first to exit the plane and clear passport control.

Travel Insurance

Despite the high reliability of Korean airlines, international travel insurance is mandatory for peace of mind. When flying to tropical countries such as the Philippines (e.g., to Cebu City) or Thailand (to Bangkok), ensure your policy covers medical expenses and active leisure. Air Busan also offers an option to add insurance during the ticket booking process (usually via partners), but it is often more beneficial to arrange a policy separately in your country of residence.

Useful Tip for Transit Passengers

If your itinerary involves a transfer in Busan, for example, when flying from Japan (flights from Tokyo or Osaka) further into Asia, allow at least 2–3 hours for the connection. Gimhae Airport is compact and convenient, but security procedures and baggage claim (if the transfer is not through-checked) can take time.

The history of Air Busan is an inspiring example of how a regional project grew into a significant player in the Asian aviation market. Created to connect Korea's maritime capital with the world, the airline has journeyed from a local carrier to an operator performing medium-haul flights on the newest aircraft.

Foundation and First Steps

The company was established in 2007 under the initial name Busan International Airlines. It was an ambitious joint project between the city of Busan, local business communities, and major carrier Asiana Airlines. The main goal of creating the new airline was to improve the transport accessibility of the region, which needed reliable and affordable air connections.

Air Busan performed its first commercial flight in October 2008, connecting its base hub with Gimpo Airport in the city of Seoul. Shortly thereafter, flights were launched to the popular resort island of Jeju City. Thanks to punctuality and quality service, the carrier quickly won the trust of local residents.

International Expansion

Success in the domestic market allowed the company to quickly expand its horizons. By 2010, Air Busan began operating its first international flights. Japan became the priority destination: the carrier's planes flew to Fukuoka, the closest city to Korea, and then to Osaka. This was a turning point, transforming a regional company into an international operator.

In subsequent years, the route network grew rapidly, covering key cities in East Asia, including Taipei and Tokyo. The company's strategy was to offer a convenient schedule and fares accessible to a wide range of tourists, which allowed it to compete successfully with major players.

Fleet Evolution

At the beginning of its journey, Air Busan used Boeing 737 Classic aircraft. However, striving to improve efficiency and passenger comfort, the management made a strategic decision to completely replace the fleet. The airline switched to liners of the Airbus A320 and A321 family. Unifying the fleet allowed for reduced maintenance costs and crew training expenses.

Currently, Air Busan is actively introducing new generation Airbus A321neo aircraft and versions with extended flight range (LR). This technological upgrade opened opportunities for launching longer flights, for example, to Southeast Asia, including destinations such as Bangkok, Vietnamese Da Nang, as well as Philippine Cebu City.

Corporate Changes and Development

As a subsidiary of Asiana Airlines, Air Busan has always adhered to the high safety and service standards of the parent company while maintaining the flexibility of a low-cost carrier. In recent years, against the backdrop of large-scale changes in the South Korean aviation industry, the company is in the process of integration into a unified structure, promising the creation of a powerful world-class budget carrier.

Modern Achievements

Today, Air Busan is known as an innovative carrier, or "Smart LCC". The company was one of the first in the region to introduce convenient mobile services for travelers. Expanding the technical capabilities of the fleet allows it to master increasingly distant routes, such as Denpasar (Bali) and Nha Trang, offering tourists direct access to beach holidays directly from Busan.