Korean Air Recognised at 2026 Condé Nast Awards

Last updated: 17 October 2026 13:21

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Korean Air was Airbus's first non-European customer © Laurent ERRERA

Korean Air has been recognised at the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards. The airline, which is expected to merge with Asiana Airlines later this year, ranked third in both the International Airlines category and International Airport Lounges category.

A aircraft with blue fuselage taking off — The airline’s cargo operations began in April 1971 with Korea’s first trans-Pacific cargo service on the Seoul–Tokyo–Los Angeles route© Nathan Coats

Evaluating Global Travel Brands since 1987

First held in 1987, the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards judges travel brands based on the experiences of its readers. Announced on Oct. 6, the 2026 results show an improvement in Korean Air’s performance in the International Airlines category, rising to third place after ranking seventh in both 2024 and 2025.

The airline’s first class lounge, at Incheon International Airport (ICN), was renovated in April of this year and now features a central hall and 11 private suites.

A Korean Air spokesperson commented on the results, saying:

“This recognition from global travellers validates our ongoing commitment to service excellence. We will continue to enhance the passenger journey as we advance our vision of becoming an airline loved by all.”

A aircraft with blue fuselage on the runway with a grassy verge in the foregrand — Through its Aerospace Business Division (KAL-ASD), Korean Air has manufactured aerospace components for Airbus since 1989 © Anna Zvereva

More About Korean Air

Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Seoul, Korean Air is a founding member of SkyTeam alliance and SkyTeam Cargo.

In addition to its recent success in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, the airline ranked 10th in the World’s Best Airline category at the Skytrax 2026 World Airline Awards.

Last month, Korean Air finalised a $44.8bn deal for 103 Boeing jets and new engines.

Have you flown with Korean Air before? Share your experiences in the comment section below.

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ByLorna Rudge

Aviation Reporter - An English graduate and an avid writer. Whilst studying for her degree Lorna undertook a work placement at the BBC which cultivated an interest in journalism. After graduating she embarked on a career in the civil service but now wants to pursue a passion for writing and news. Lorna is a keen traveller. Her favourite destination is Egypt which she has visited 12 times!