Korean Air records double-digit Penang cargo growth

Korean Air Lines Co Ltd experienced a surge in export cargo volume from Penang in the first half of 2026, registering double-digit growth. This growth was fueled by the demand for high-value semiconductor and electronics shipments headed towards South Korea and the Americas. Kang Sang Bum, the regional manager for Malaysia, Brunei, and Bangladesh at Korean Air, noted that cargo demand from Penang has continued to rise.

To meet this demand, Korean Air increased the number of cargo flights to Penang, enhancing their freighter services from Malaysia. These services are integrated with Korean Air's broader cargo network, enabling shipments to reach various markets rather than just connecting Malaysia to South Korea. The airline's cargo division, Korean Air Cargo, operates six weekly freighter flights from Penang using Boeing B747-400F and B777F aircraft, covering four route loops.

Moreover, Korean Air also conducts two weekly dedicated freighter services from Kuala Lumpur, utilizing belly-hold capacity on its daily passenger flights between Kuala Lumpur and Seoul Incheon. Export cargo from Kuala Lumpur saw steady year-on-year growth during the first half of 2026, primarily due to electrical and electronic goods, aerospace parts, and industrial materials.

Korean Air is enhancing its efficiency by upgrading facilities and automation at its cargo terminal in Incheon Cargo Terminal, with these improvements expected to be completed in the second half of 2026. The airline manages a freighter network linking 45 cities across 26 countries, comprising a fleet of 23 dedicated freighters, including B777F and B747-8F aircraft.