Korea expands China routes, gives more flight rights to LCCs

The transport ministry announced on Wednesday the expansion of international flight routes connecting South Korea and China, opening additional opportunities for low-cost carriers (LCCs). According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, 25 routes have been allocated to 10 airlines, bringing more lucrative prospects for Korean and Chinese air travel.

The allocation includes enhanced services linking Incheon Airport, South Korea's primary international hub, with significant Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Dalian. The number of weekly flights on the Incheon-Beijing route has risen from 38 to 52, while the Incheon-Shanghai route increased from 56 to 63 flights per week.

Similarly, flight entitlements for Guangzhou and Dalian rose from 21 to 28 flights, while Nanjing and Changsha now see 14 flights per week, up from 11, and Hangzhou has 14 flights per week, up from ten. The new route entitlements include LCCs such as Parata Air Co., Jeju Air Co., Jin Air Co., Eastar Jet Co., and Air Premia Co.

The expanded flight rights follow a recent agreement between South Korea and China to broaden bilateral flight rights for the first time in seven years. This development comes as the government seeks to bolster the country's aviation sector and promote economic growth through increased air connectivity.