25% of Flights in South Korea Delayed in 2024 Due to Air Traffic Issues
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Synopsis
Seoul, Feb 10 (NationPress) One in four flights operated by South Korean airlines last year experienced delays in flight departures or arrivals, according to government data. The average delay rate reached 25.7%, with Air Seoul facing the highest delays among international flights.
Key Takeaways
- One in four South Korean flights delayed in 2024
- Average delay rate for airlines was 25.7%
- Air Seoul had the highest international delay rate
- Korean Air named best airline for 2025
- Delays attributed to increased international flights
Seoul, Feb 10 (NationPress) Last year, one in four flights operated by South Korean airlines faced delays in either departures or arrivals, as revealed by government data on Monday.
The transport ministry's report submitted to Rep. Ahn Tae-jun of the Democratic Party indicated that the average delay rate for domestic and international flights by 10 airlines in 2024 was at 25.7 percent, according to Yonhap news agency.
As per ministry regulations, a flight is deemed delayed if it arrives or departs over 15 minutes later than scheduled. Out of the 678,489 flights operated by South Korean airlines last year, 174,078 were marked as delayed.
The ministry linked the high delay rate to a rise in international flights, resulting in greater airport congestion, along with frequent turbulence and airspace restrictions.
Among international routes, Air Seoul recorded the highest delay rate at 46.6 percent, followed by Eastar Jet at 38 percent and Jin Air at 35.4 percent. In domestic routes, T'way Air had the highest delay rate at 31.3 percent, closely followed by Air Seoul.
In another development, Korean Air, South Korea's premier airline, announced on Monday that it was recognized as the best airline of 2025 by Airline Ratings, a renowned Australia-based aviation publication.
Korean Air topped a thorough assessment of over 350 airlines globally, based on various factors including safety, product ratings, passenger feedback, fleet age, and environmental efforts.
Airline Ratings commended Korean Air's economy class experience, particularly its spacious seating compared to competitors and attentive onboard service.
The evaluation also highlighted Korean Air's extensive amenities on long-haul flights, including improved dining options and a wide array of in-flight entertainment, as per the company.
“Korean Air’s commitment to providing exceptional service across all cabin classes, from economy to premium, is supported by ongoing investments in advanced aircraft and fleet modernization,” stated Airline Ratings CEO Sharon Petersen.
