South Korea is a key customer base across Airbus’ businesses in commercial aircraft, defence, space and helicopters. Airbus also has developed a strong presence and extensive industrial partnerships with several aerospace companies in the country.
Commercial Aircraft
South Korea is a key market for Airbus with some 140 aircraft currently in service. The current fleet includes aircraft from across the Airbus product line, from the 100-150 seat A220 to the double deck A380.
The aircraft are flying across the networks of Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, and at low-cost carriers Aero K, Air Busan, Air Seoul, Fly Gangwon, Jeju Air and T’way Air
Helicopters
There are over 60 Airbus helicopters in service in the South Korean military, civil and parapublic segments. Popular civil models such as the light intermediate single-engine H125, light twin-engine H135, and the versatile H225 are used on missions including search and rescue, fire-fighting, utility and corporate transportation. Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) also operates Super Puma helicopters in a utility role.
Defence
In 2015, the South Korean Ministry of National Defense placed a landmark order for the A330 MRTT. Four aircraft are now in successful service with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) flying on a range of missions, including for the refuelling of fighter aircraft strategic transport capability. The ROKAF also operates CN235 for various tactical missions. The Korean Coast Guard operates the C212.
Space
Airbus and South Korea have been long-time partners on space programmes, working with organisations such as the Korean Aerospace and Research Institute (KARI) to design and produce the country’s first multi-function geostationary satellite (GEO-Kompsat). Airbus also provides high resolution satellite imagery services to various Korean operators.
Industrial partnerships
South Korea is one of Airbus’ main industrial partners in Asia. Top suppliers like Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Korean Air Aerospace Division (KAL-ASD) contribute to the Airbus civil aircraft and helicopter product line. This supply chain also includes a growing small and medium enterprises.
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