Korean Air’s flights between Auckland and Seoul are now operating daily, as Korea continues to trend locally.
The carrier moved to daily services from 25 Oct, and has upgauged its aircraft from a 278-seat 787-9 to a next-generation 787-10, offering 325 seats, and a 311-seat A350-900.
KE’s general manager New Zealand Jaewon Park says given the upcoming merger with Asiana Airlines, the airline is set to offer Kiwis even more connectivity.
Park says the 787-10 and A350-900s are ‘state-of-the-art’ including a refreshed Prestige class in both aircraft, while the A350 900 also has 33 Economy Extra-Legroom seats, which he says is an upsell opportunity for agents.
. . . Premium Up
The refreshed product offering comes as KE reports a rise in premium demand. Park says while its economy bookings have grown significantly, that KE has also seen a strong increase in corporate and Prestige class demand both to Korea and beyond. His advice to agents is, with peak seasons ahead, to urge clients to book early. “Because Prestige (business) class seat inventory is limited, early booking ensures client access to best fare categories.”
Park says KE is keen to continue to work with the local travel trade, adding that it will continue to offer a commission and promotional fares across its network to help agents drive conversions. “KE remains deeply committed to acting as a vital bridge connecting New Zealand to the world and growing alongside our local travel trade partners,” he adds.
. . . Asiana
KE will integrate with Asiana Airlines on 17 Dec. In New Zealand it will largely be business as usual, however beyond Korea the merger means KE’s network will expand significantly.
“Following the completion of the KE/OZ integration, KE will rank among the top 15 global airlines by available seat kilometre, expanding our global network even further,” says Park. He urges agents selling KE fares for travel beyond Korea to make full use of the Transit Tours and K-Stopover programs run by Incheon Airport Limited. See more details HERE.
