Anticipated Historic Peak in Aircraft Operations at Incheon Airport This Winter – Attention on Potential Airfare Reduction
This winter, it is projected that aircraft operations at Incheon Airport will reach an all-time high since its inception. The increase in available airline seats has sparked interest in whether airfares will undergo a reduction.
According to Incheon International Airport Corporation, the aggregated data of flight applications from airlines planning to operate at Incheon Airport during the upcoming winter season (October 2023 to March 2024) is estimated to reach an unprecedented 1,933,163 flights. This figure represents an 85% surge compared to the corresponding period last year (1,046,603 flights) and a notable 14.7% rise compared to the pre-COVID-19 era in 2018 (1,684,406 flights).
Among the various routes, those heading to Southeast Asia show the most substantial increase, with a staggering 16.5% surge from 2018, resulting in 51,364 flights. Following closely is China, with a 20.9% rise to 44,019 flights, Japan with an 11.6% increase to 38,315 flights, Northeast Asia with an 18.8% growth to 18,316 flights, and the Americas with an 11.2% climb to 15,550 flights.
Noteworthy airlines that have applied for new routes to be launched during the winter season at Incheon Airport include Mongolian Airways, Air Vistara from India, AirAsia from Malaysia, and Long Air from China. Additionally, Swiss Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines, and Starlux Airlines from Taiwan have expressed their intention to commence operations after 2024.
In an earlier event, Incheon International Airport Corporation participated in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Slot Conference held at the Dublin Convention Center from the 13th to the 15th of this month. The purpose of the conference was to engage in discussions regarding flight schedules for the 2023 winter season.
As flight operations continue to expand, there is a heightened interest in the potential impact of increased seat availability on airfare reduction.
An official from Incheon International Airport Corporation expressed, “With an anticipated increase in the supply of airline seats, we expect a significant influence on reducing airfares.”
Jungchan Lee/Korea Travel News
Director Shimizu Yuichi’s extensive background in national and local government tourism policies and regional development projects spans over a decade. Notably, his impactful experiences in Okinawa and Tohoku have shaped his current endeavors. He expressed his ardent desire to share the pride and accomplishments of the people he has encountered throughout Japan with the Korean audience.
The event brought together representatives from 42 organizations and 69 officials representing Taiwan’s central and local governments, airlines, travel agencies, hotels, and other tourism-related industries. Over 50 industry professionals, including representatives from the Korea Tourism Organization, travel agencies, and media, were also invited to share the latest tourism benefits. As a gesture of appreciation, attendees received “Fong Luso,” a cherished Taiwanese souvenir.
Throughout the festival, a series of live performances by BTS and their talented collaborators captivated audiences, demonstrating the group’s versatility and their ability to connect with fans on an emotional level. From heartwarming ballads to energetic anthems, each performance was a testament to BTS’s artistry and their ability to create music that transcends boundaries.
As the clock struck 20:30, a collective gasp of wonder filled the air as the night sky erupted into a mesmerizing symphony of fireworks. Brilliant bursts of color illuminated the darkness, each explosion synchronized flawlessly with the melodies that have become the soundtrack to countless lives around the world. ARMYs and spectators alike watched in awe, their hearts swelling with pride and admiration for the group that has made such an indelible impact.
The 2023 BTS Festa was more than just a celebration of BTS’s achievements; it was a testament to the power of music, unity, and the enduring bond between artists and their fans. The festival provided a platform for ARMYs from diverse backgrounds to come together, united by their love for BTS and their shared experiences. In a world that often feels divided, BTS has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of music to bridge cultural gaps and foster connections that transcend borders.
Our passage to the islands commenced aboard the KTX express train, whisking us away from the city’s vibrant rhythm. With each passing mile, the urban landscape transformed into rolling hills and quaint towns. Finally, Mokpo emerged, an inviting port city nestled on the fringes of the East Sea. From the train station, we embarked on a short taxi ride, destined for the Mokpo passenger marine terminal—a gateway to our island escapades.
Boarding the sleek and modern catamaran, we were immediately confronted by the untamed vigor of the Yellow Sea. As the vessel surged forward, battling meter-high waves, a symphony of exhilaration and mild discomfort coursed through us. Sea legs were tested, but as we docked at the pier, the jubilant embrace of cool, salty air rejuvenated our spirits and reaffirmed the indomitable allure of exploration.
As dusk gracefully descended upon the island, we set out to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of the local village. The pier came alive, teeming with skilled divers reaping the ocean’s bounty, while nearby, bars, dance clubs, and karaoke venues whispered promises of mirthful evenings. These unassuming establishments, tailored for the discerning Korean clientele, epitomized the authenticity and unpretentious allure of Hong Do. Nightfall settled, and we drifted into peaceful slumber, embraced by the island’s gentle whispers.
Our journey continued, as we bid farewell to Hong Do and set sail for Hooksan Do—another island awaiting our arrival. This larger, more vibrant locale pulsated with life, boasting a waterfront adorned with charismatic bars, delectable restaurants, and inviting coffee shops. It was a testament to the islands’ remarkable diversity, where each stop unraveled unique facets of Korean island culture.
Alas, the time to bid farewell arrived, and we embarked on the final leg of our journey—the return to Mokpo. Aboard the car ferry, we ascended to the open passenger deck, serenaded by the gentle lapping of waves against the vessel’s hull. The ferry’s grandeur, combined with the route navigating between countless islands, bestowed upon us a tranquil voyage, where we succumbed to the soothing embrace of the sea, surrendering to restful slumber before Mokpo’s embrace once again.
In Mokpo, an insatiable craving led me on a quest for a hamburger, a respite from the delightful but persistent fish and rice. Satisfied, we made our way back to the train station, memories of the islands etched deeply within us, as we embarked on the journey back to Seoul.
The Korea-Taiwan Tourism Exchange Conference has a long-standing tradition, dating back to its inception in 1974. Since then, it has been held alternately in Taiwan and Korea each year. Notably, the 2022 conference marked a significant milestone as it became the first face-to-face meeting between the two countries during the COVID period. This meeting highlighted the deep friendship and the importance of exchanges between Taiwan and Korea.
During the conference, discussions revolved around the theme of “International Tourism Resumption Strategy for Achieving 3 Million Mutual Exchanges between Korea and Taiwan.” The three main topics of focus were strategies for activating the Korea-Taiwan tourism market, promoting themed tourism, and formulating tourism strategies for local cities. Taiwan highlighted its diverse tourism offerings, including cruises, railways, and art festivals, showcasing its attractive ports, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Taiwan expressed the hope that more Korean travel industry professionals would develop and expand tourism products in Taiwan, attracting a greater number of Korean tourists and allowing them to delve deeper into Taiwan’s beauty.
In addition to its existing routes, Air Premia plans to expand its network of long-haul destinations, including major cities in North America and Europe. The airline is currently evaluating the feasibility of adding routes to cities such as Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Seattle, and Hawaii. By capitalizing on the growing demand for international travel and the trend of expanding long-haul routes, Air Premia aims to achieve its ambitious revenue targets while providing seamless connectivity options to its passengers.
Passengers have praised Air Premia’s commitment to customer-centric services, citing comfortable seating, delectable onboard meals, and friendly cabin crew as key highlights of their experience. In an independent Net Promoter Score (NPS) survey conducted by Air Premia, customers expressed a strong likelihood to recommend the airline to others, with an overall NPS score of 70—an excellent rating in the industry.
Regular attendees of SITF2023, such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Guam, were present. Notably, three Central Asian countries, namely Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, which have shown great interest in the Korean travel market in recent years, actively engaged in promotional activities.
The Director of the Malta Tourism Board, Mr. Endo Singo, who is passionate about pioneering the Korean market, was busy communicating with visitors and conducting business consultations. Similarly, the Mongolian booth, consisting of a large delegation including a traditional dance troupe and musicians, was bustling with visitors throughout the fair.
