Korean Air Cargo Launches Seattle-Seoul Freighter Service

- Three weekly flights begin on June 1 -

Korean Air Cargo, a division of Korean Air Lines (KAL), has announced that beginning on June 1 the airline will offer three-times-per-week freighter service between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Seoul/Incheon Airport.

The company will operate a Boeing 747-400F on the route, and has indicated that additional weekly flights are possible during the Pacific Northwest cherry season. According to the International Air Transport Association, Korean Air Cargo carries more air freight than any other airline in the world. It has been ranked among the world's top three cargo carriers each year since 1993.

"We are thrilled that Korean Air is expanding its operation at Sea-Tac to include freighters," said Port of Seattle Commission President Patricia Davis. "Less than a year ago we welcomed their first passenger flight. It's very gratifying to learn that the Seattle market is proving so successful for Korean Air."

Korean Air is the largest subsidiary of Hanjin Group of Korea, the world's leading transportation conglomerate. Hanjin Shipping is a long-time customer of the Port of Seattle's Seaport Division.

"We have a long and prosperous partnership with Hanjin," Davis said. "Having their air cargo service to the US anchored in Seattle is a major achievement for the Port. We appreciate the confidence that Korean Air has shown in us."

KAL began passenger service to Sea-Tac in June 2005. The service started at three-times-per-week, but has since expanded to four weekly flights. The company will additionally offer a fifth weekly flight during the peak summer months.

Korea is the state of Washington's fourth largest trading partner. In terms of exports to Korea, Washington ranks number three behind California and Texas.