Korean Air enjoys the distinction of being the only global airline not to post any losses during the pandemic, thanks largely to its cargo operations. But if the carrier wants to continue that competitive advantage, South Korea needs to drop restrictions impacting passenger demand.
Korean Air reported record cargo revenues — again — in the September quarter as the bottlenecks in supply chains and maritime shipping boosted its air freight business. But, despite rare pandemic profits, the South Korean carrier says passengers need to return for its long-term health.
The largest passenger jet is returning to the skies amid an eager return of long-haul travelers as countries slowly reopen their borders. Singapore Airlines joins others with reinstating the Airbus A380 in what may be a moment for the superjumbo jet.
Global airlines said Monday they don't want to take the responsibility mandating Covid-19 vaccines for travelers. Instead, they're more than happy to stand behind national governments as they make jabs a condition for international arrivals.
The pandemic has forced airline CEOs to be more accessible. Coming off the worst year in aviation's modern history, being front and center with workers and customers takes on a new urgency for CEOs looking to resuscitate business.
As far as warnings go, this is about as stark as you can get. For Korean Air Lines, its very survival really depends on how long the coronavirus crisis lasts.