Korean Air

As the flag carrier of South Korea, Korean Air has transcended its role as a mere transportation provider to become a global ambassador of Korean culture and hospitality. With its signature celadon blue livery, the airline connects travelers from every corner of the globe to the vibrant heart of East Asia and beyond. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, Korean Air promises a journey defined by sophisticated service, blending traditional grace with state-of-the-art modern comfort. It stands as a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, underscoring its commitment to seamless global connectivity.

A Legacy of Excellence and Growth
Established in 1969 after being acquired by the Hanjin Group, Korean Air has grown from a small regional carrier into one of the world's top airlines. Over the decades, it has pioneered trans-Pacific routes and played a crucial role in turning Seoul into a major international aviation hub. The airline's mission focuses on "Excellence in Flight," a philosophy that permeates every aspect of their operations, from ground handling to cabin service.

Modern Fleet and Connectivity
Korean Air operates a robust and modern fleet designed for long-haul comfort and efficiency. The lineup includes cutting-edge aircraft such as the Airbus A380, Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental, and the fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This diverse fleet allows the airline to serve an extensive network covering Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East. For travelers in the UAE, the airline offers direct connections from Dubai to Seoul, facilitating easy access to the Far East.

Award-Winning Service and Safety
The airline is renowned for its exceptional in-flight service, particularly its culinary offerings. Korean Air was one of the first to introduce traditional Korean dishes, such as bibimbap, to in-flight menus, earning prestigious awards for its catering. Safety remains a paramount value; the airline invests heavily in rigorous pilot training, advanced flight simulators, and strict maintenance protocols to ensure the highest safety standards. These efforts have consistently earned it 5-star ratings from airline review organizations.

Connecting with Korean Air in the United Arab Emirates is straightforward, thanks to their dedicated local presence in Dubai. Travelers can easily manage their bookings or seek assistance through the airline's toll-free reservation line, which operates around the clock, or by visiting their city and airport offices during business hours.

Official Website
For the most comprehensive and up-to-date services, including flight management and check-in, visit the official global site which supports regional preferences:
www.koreanair.com

Contact Information

• Customer Service (Toll-Free): 800 017 8627 (Available 24 hours daily)
• Dubai Office Phone: +971 4 337 7003
• Airport Office Phone: +971 4 224 4198
• Email: customersvc@koreanair.com or engreservation@koreanair.com
• Mobile App: Korean Air My (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Local Offices in UAE

Korean Air maintains both a city office for reservations and inquiries, and an operational office at the airport.

• Dubai City Office:
  Nassima Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
  Working Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday – Thursday). Closed on Fridays and Public Holidays.
• Dubai Airport Office:
  Room No. 1088, Ground Floor, Terminal 1, Dubai International Airport (DXB)
  Check-in Counter: Area 2, Terminal 1 (Open daily during flight operations)

Social Media

Stay updated with the latest announcements and offers through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/KoreanAir.global
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/KoreanAir_KE
• Instagram: instagram.com/koreanairworld
• YouTube: youtube.com/KoreanAir

Planning your journey with Korean Air involves understanding the specific baggage allowances to ensure a smooth airport experience. The airline provides generous baggage policies tailored to your cabin class and itinerary, allowing you to travel with essential items and gifts comfortably. Whether you are departing from Dubai or connecting through the global network, here is what you need to know about packing for your trip.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Passengers are permitted to bring cabin baggage on board, subject to weight and size limitations to ensure safety and comfort for everyone.

• Economy Class: You are allowed 1 carry-on bag plus one additional personal item (such as a laptop, briefcase, or handbag). The total combined weight must not exceed 10kg (22lbs).
• Prestige & First Class: Travelers in premium cabins enjoy a higher allowance of 2 carry-on bags. The total combined weight for these items must not exceed 18kg (40lbs).
• Size Limits: The linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of each bag must not exceed 115cm (45in), ensuring it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat.

Checked Baggage Limits

Korean Air utilizes the "Piece Concept" for checked luggage, meaning your allowance is determined by the number of bags and their individual weight. While specific allowances can vary by route, the general guidelines for international flights, such as those to Seoul, are as follows:

• Economy Class: typically includes 1 piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 23kg (50lbs). Some routes or fare types may allow for two pieces; always verify your specific ticket conditions.
• Prestige Class: allows for 2 pieces of luggage, with each bag weighing up to 32kg (70lbs).
• First Class: offers the most generous allowance of 3 pieces, with each bag weighing up to 32kg (70lbs).

The maximum size for any checked bag (Length + Width + Height) should not exceed 158cm (62in). Bags exceeding this size or weight limit may incur additional fees.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you need to bring more than your free allowance, excess baggage charges will apply. These fees depend on the route and whether the excess is due to the number of pieces, weight, or size. It is generally more cost-effective to pre-purchase extra baggage allowance online through the Korean Air website or mobile app before your flight.

Special Baggage Items

Korean Air accommodates various special items to support your travel needs:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, skis, or snowboards generally count towards your free baggage allowance. If the total weight or count exceeds your allowance, standard excess fees apply.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments like violins can be brought on board as carry-on luggage if they fit in the overhead bin. larger instruments, such as cellos, require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as fragile baggage in a hard case.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, strict rules apply to what can be packed:

• Lithium Batteries & Power Banks: These must never be placed in checked luggage. They must be carried with you in the cabin.
• Electronic Cigarettes: Must be carried in the cabin and cannot be used or charged on board.
• Prohibited Goods: Flammable liquids, gases, explosives, and other hazardous materials are strictly forbidden in both carry-on and checked baggage.
• Smart Luggage: Bags with non-removable lithium batteries are not permitted.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid delays at the airport, weigh your bags at home before leaving. Ensure all old barcode tags are removed from your luggage to prevent routing errors. Place a tag with your name, phone number, and email address on both the outside and inside of your checked bags. If you are carrying valuables, medication, or important documents, always keep them in your carry-on bag.

Traveling with Pets on Korean Air

Korean Air understands that pets are part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as yours through its SKYPETS service. Whether you are relocating or going on a long holiday, the airline permits dogs, cats, and pet birds to travel either in the cabin or in the cargo hold, ensuring safety and care throughout the flight.

Transport Options

Depending on the size and weight of your pet, as well as the aircraft type operating your route, there are three distinct ways your pet can travel.

In Cabin (Carry-On)

Small pets can join you in the passenger cabin, provided they remain in their carrier for the entire duration of the flight.

• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the pet plus the carrier must not exceed 7 kg (15 lbs).
• Carrier Dimensions: Soft carriers must not exceed 26 cm (10 in) in height. Hard cases are limited to 20 cm (8 in) in height. The sum of the three dimensions should be under 115 cm (45 in).
• Allowed Animals: Only dogs, cats, and pet birds are permitted.
• Limit: Each passenger is allowed one carry-on pet carrier.
• Placement: The carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

For larger animals that exceed the cabin weight limits, the temperature-controlled cargo hold is the standard option.

• Weight Limits: The total weight of the pet and crate must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs) for most routes, though some destinations allow up to 45 kg (99 lbs).
• Crate Requirements: Containers must be rigid, secure, and IATA-approved. There must be enough space for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Temperature Restrictions: Travel may be restricted if the outdoor temperature at departure or arrival airports (e.g., in Dubai or Seoul) is extreme (too hot or too cold).
• Limit: Passengers can typically check in up to two pets, depending on the aircraft.

As Cargo

Some situations require pets to be transported as manifest cargo rather than checked baggage.

• When Required: If the combined weight of the pet and crate exceeds 45 kg (99 lbs), or if the pet is traveling unaccompanied.
• Requirements: This process involves different handling procedures and waybills.
• Booking: Arrangements must be made through a freight forwarder or the airline's cargo department well in advance.

Required Documentation

International travel requires meticulous paperwork to ensure your pet is allowed entry into the destination country.

• Veterinary Passport: Identifying the pet and owner.
• Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian, typically required within 10 days of travel.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other breed-specific shots.
• Quarantine Certificates: Specific forms required by the destination country (e.g., South Korea has strict quarantine rules).
• Microchip: Required for identification on most international routes.

Service Costs

Pet transportation fees are separate from your baggage allowance and vary based on the route and method of travel.

• In-Cabin Fee: Generally ranges from USD 100 to USD 200 per sector for international flights.
• Cargo Hold Fee: typically ranges from USD 200 to USD 400 depending on the weight and zone.
• Payment: Fees are usually paid at the airport check-in counter in local currency.

Preparation Tips

To ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend, proper preparation is essential.

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the carrier or crate weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 2-4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness; do not feed them right before flying.
• Hydration: Provide water up until the flight, and ensure the crate has a water dispenser.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad and a familiar toy or blanket inside the crate to reduce stress.

Restrictions

For the safety of the animals, Korean Air enforces specific restrictions.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Aggressive Animals: Animals showing aggressive behavior may be refused transport.
• Age Limits: Pets must usually be at least 16 weeks old for international travel.
• Exceptions: Service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities generally travel for free in the cabin, subject to specific regulations.

Important: Airline policies and international entry requirements can change. We strongly recommend contacting Korean Air directly and verifying the regulations of your destination country before booking your tickets.

Korean Air Loyalty Program: SKYPASS

Travelers flying with Korean Air can enhance their journey by joining SKYPASS, the airline's renowned frequent flyer program. Designed to reward loyal passengers with exclusive privileges, SKYPASS allows members to accrue miles not only on flights but also through a wide network of global partners. Whether you are a frequent business traveler commuting between Dubai and Seoul or planning a leisure trip to Asia, this program offers tangible value and seamless travel benefits.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

SKYPASS features a tiered membership structure that rewards frequent flyers with increasing levels of service and comfort. Members advance through the ranks based on miles flown or the number of qualifying flights.

• SKYPASS Club (Entry Level): Immediate access to member-only promotions and the ability to earn miles from day one.
• Morning Calm Club: Enjoy priority check-in, additional baggage allowance, and access to prestige class lounges (limited yearly visits).
• Morning Calm Premium Club: Benefits include SkyTeam Elite Plus status, priority baggage handling, and off-peak mileage redemption for peak season travel.
• Million Miler Club: The highest tier offering lifetime status, exclusive dedicated phone lines, and a special gift upon achieving the milestone.

Earning Miles

accumulating miles is straightforward and flexible, with opportunities extending far beyond just air travel.

• Flights: Earn miles based on the distance flown and booking class on Korean Air and SkyTeam partner airlines.
• Hotels: Receive mileage credit for stays at global chains like Hyatt, Marriott, and InterContinental.
• Car Rentals: Earn points when renting vehicles from major agencies such as Hertz and Avis worldwide.
• Credit Cards: Convert points from partner bank credit cards directly into SKYPASS miles for faster accumulation.
• Everyday Services: diverse partners including cyber money exchange and travel insurance providers also offer earning opportunities.

Redeeming Miles

Your accumulated miles can be exchanged for a variety of valuable rewards that enhance your travel experience.

• Award Flights: Book bonus tickets on Korean Air or any SkyTeam alliance partner airline.
• Seat Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Prestige Class or from Prestige to First Class.
• Lounge Access: Redeem miles for access to the luxurious KAL Lounge even when flying Economy.
• Excess Baggage: Pay for additional luggage allowances using your mileage balance instead of cash.
• Lifestyle Awards: Redeem for hotel stays, rental cars, or tours on Jeju Island (specific conditions apply).

Alliance Membership

As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, Korean Air offers SKYPASS members global reach and recognition.

• Global Network: Earn and redeem miles across a network of 18+ member airlines serving over 1,000 destinations.
• Key Partners: Enjoy seamless connections with carriers such as Air France, Delta Air Lines, KLM, and Saudia.
• Elite Benefits: Elite members enjoy SkyPriority services like fast-track security and priority boarding at airports worldwide.

How to Join

Enrollment in the SKYPASS program is free and open to everyone. Travelers can sign up instantly via the Korean Air official website or mobile app. Digital membership cards are available immediately upon registration, allowing you to start earning miles on your very next flight.

Flying with Korean Air is an experience designed to prioritize passenger comfort and cultural immersion from the moment you step onboard. Whether you are embarking on a long-haul journey from Dubai to Seoul or connecting to other destinations in Asia and the Americas, the airline ensures a restful flight with its modern fleet and attentive crew. The cabin interiors are designed to provide a sense of spaciousness and calm, featuring ergonomic seating and state-of-the-art amenities across all classes.

Service Classes

Korean Air offers three distinct cabin classes, each tailored to meet the needs of different travelers, ranging from value-conscious vacationers to executive passengers seeking ultimate privacy.

Economy Class

Korean Air’s Economy Class is widely recognized as one of the most spacious in the industry. Passengers can expect:

• Seat Comfort: Ergonomically designed seats with a generous pitch (typically 33–34 inches) and a sliding seat cushion that offers better lumbar support and recline.
• Amenities: On long-haul flights, travelers receive an amenity kit containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, and folding slippers—a thoughtful touch often reserved for premium cabins on other airlines.
• Power & Connectivity: Individual USB ports and power outlets are available at every seat, allowing you to keep your devices charged throughout the flight.

Prestige Class (Business)

Known as "Prestige Class," Korean Air’s business offering focuses on maximizing personal space and rest.

• Prestige Suites: On many international routes, passengers enjoy private suites with direct aisle access. These seats transform into fully flat 180-degree beds, ensuring a deep sleep during overnight journeys.
• Privacy & Functionality: The layout often features privacy panels and ample storage for personal items. A large personal monitor and intuitive seat controls make working or relaxing effortless.
• Premium Service: Guests enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and access to the KAL Lounge. Upon boarding, a welcome drink and premium amenities are served.

First Class

For the ultimate in luxury, First Class provides a sanctuary in the sky, featuring the acclaimed "Kosmo Suites."

• Kosmo Suites 2.0: Available on select aircraft, these suites feature sliding doors for total privacy, transforming into a spacious, comfortable bed with luxurious bedding and mattresses.
• Exclusive Atmosphere: With a dedicated cabin crew and a highly personalized service ratio, passengers receive undivided attention.
• Refined Comfort: Guests are provided with high-end loungewear, premium amenity kits from luxury cosmetic brands, and noise-canceling headphones.

In-Flight Dining

Dining onboard Korean Air is a culinary journey in itself. The airline has won numerous awards for its "Farm to Fly" concept, using fresh ingredients often sourced from its own eco-farms on Jeju Island.

• Signature Dishes: The airline is famous for its traditional Korean meal, Bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and beef), served with hot soup and side dishes. Other Korean classics like Ssambap and Bulgogi are also frequently offered.
• Western & Chinese Options: For those preferring other cuisines, a full selection of Western, Chinese, and Japanese courses is available, prepared by top-tier chefs.
• Beverages: A curated wine list, selected by expert sommeliers, complements the meals. In First and Prestige classes, passengers can enjoy premium champagnes and a variety of cocktails.

Entertainment and Wi-Fi

The in-flight entertainment system, beyond, ensures that boredom is never an option. High-resolution touchscreens are standard at every seat.

• Content: The system offers hundreds of the latest Hollywood blockbusters, Asian cinema, documentaries, K-pop albums, and games.
• In-Flight Wi-Fi: Korean Air is progressively rolling out Wi-Fi services on its newer aircraft, such as the Boeing 737-8 and 787, allowing passengers to browse the internet and stay connected with family and colleagues (fees apply).

Special Services

Korean Air is dedicated to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers through a range of thoughtful special services.

• Family Services: Passengers traveling with infants can request bassinets in advance. For older children, attentive care and child-friendly meals (spaghetti, burgers, or fried rice) keep young travelers happy.
• Unaccompanied Minors: A dedicated escort service guides children traveling alone from check-in to their guardian at the destination, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Disability Assistance: Comprehensive support is available for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services and specialized cabin assistance. It is recommended to request these services at least 48 hours before departure.
• Medical Services: For passengers with medical conditions, the airline offers consultation services and can arrange for oxygen supplies or stretcher transport upon prior approval.

Korean Air serves the United Arab Emirates with direct connectivity to its global hub in Seoul. Offering a seamless travel experience, the airline connects passengers from the Middle East to an extensive network of destinations across Asia, the Americas, and Oceania.

Securing the best journey with Korean Air starts well before you arrive at the airport. To find lower fares for flights, such as the popular route from Dubai to the airline's hub in Seoul, it is generally recommended to book your tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance. Prices often rise as the departure date approaches, so planning ahead can result in significant savings. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotional offers, which are frequently announced on the airline's official website or through their newsletter.

Maximize your travel value by joining SKYPASS, the airline's loyalty program. Members often receive exclusive news about deals and can earn miles that are redeemable for upgrades or future travel. When searching for flights, consider being flexible with your dates; flying mid-week rather than on weekends can sometimes unlock cheaper fare classes. Additionally, using price comparison tools or setting up price alerts can help you catch drops in ticket prices immediately.

For a seamless airport experience, take advantage of online check-in, which typically opens 48 hours before your scheduled departure time. This allows you to confirm your details and select your seat from the comfort of your home. Speaking of seats, early selection is crucial if you have specific preferences, such as a window seat or extra legroom. The Korean Air mobile app is an excellent companion for this, letting you manage your booking, check in, and even track your baggage in real-time directly from your smartphone.

Finally, do not overlook the importance of travel insurance. International travel involves various variables, and having a comprehensive policy can protect you against unexpected cancellations, flight delays, or medical emergencies abroad. Ensuring you are covered provides peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy the premium service and hospitality that Korean Air is known for.

From National Carrier to Global Leader

The story of Korean Air is deeply intertwined with the rapid economic rise of South Korea itself. While its roots trace back to a government-run airline, the company's modern era truly began in 1969, when it was acquired by the Hanjin Group. This privatization marked a turning point, replacing the older fleet with jet aircraft and setting the stage for aggressive international expansion. In the early 1970s, the airline launched its first trans-Pacific passenger route to Los Angeles, a historic milestone that opened a vital skyway between Asia and North America.

Defining a Brand and Building Alliances

The 1980s brought a visual revolution for the airline. In 1984, the carrier introduced its iconic "Excellence in Flight" livery, featuring the Taegeuk design and the distinctive celadon blue color scheme that remains recognizable at airports worldwide today. This era also saw the airline become the official carrier for the 1988 Seoul Olympics, showcasing Korean hospitality to the world. A major strategic leap occurred in 2000, when Korean Air became a founding member of SkyTeam, partnering with other major global carriers to offer passengers seamless connectivity across the globe.

Fleet Evolution and Innovation

Throughout its history, the airline has maintained a commitment to operating cutting-edge technology. It was one of the most significant operators of the Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jet," which formed the backbone of its long-haul network for decades. As aviation technology advanced, the fleet evolved to include the double-decker Airbus A380, featuring the world's first in-flight duty-free shop, and the fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. These investments have allowed the carrier to improve passenger comfort while focusing on operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Strategic Growth and Future Horizons

In recent years, Korean Air has embarked on one of the most significant developments in its history: the acquisition of Asiana Airlines. This strategic move is designed to consolidate the South Korean aviation industry, creating a single, dominant flag carrier capable of competing with the world's largest airlines. Simultaneously, the airline continues to refine its network, strengthening connections between Seoul and key global markets, including the Middle East. With a continuous focus on innovation, from biometric boarding to eco-friendly operations, the airline remains dedicated to shaping the future of global travel.