Korean Air to build new maintenance hangar in Incheon

Korean Air announced on Nov. 24 that it would construct a new aircraft maintenance hangar within Incheon International Airport by investing 176 billion won ($120 million)

Toward that end, the Seoul-based company plans to join hands with the Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC) by signing an agreement in Incheon.

The new facility will serve as a next-generation maintenance hub equipped to handle airframe inspections, component overhauls, and complex heavy maintenance and modification work.

As Korean Air prepares for the launch of the integrated carrier, the hangar is expected to play a central role in expanding the airline’s MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) capabilities and strengthening Incheon’s status as a global aviation maintenance center.

“A maintenance hangar is not merely a building; it is a cradle of safety and a vital foundation for upholding Korean Air’s top priority of absolute safety,” Korean Air Vice Chairman Woo Kee-hong said.

“From the earliest design phase, we will ensure this new hangar becomes the safest, most advanced, and most exemplary maintenance base—a true stronghold of aviation safety.”

The H3 hangar will accommodate two widebody aircraft and one narrowbody aircraft simultaneously, according to Korean Air. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with operations targeted for late 2029.

Around 300 employees, including Korean Air’s specialized maintenance staff, will be stationed at the facility, which will serve as a major center for heavy maintenance and aircraft modification.

The project marks a significant step in Korean Air’s efforts to enhance its operational strength and reinforce its global maintenance expertise following the integration of the combined carrier.

With expanded capacity and upgraded infrastructure, Korean Air aims to position itself as a leading global MRO hub, contributing to the competitiveness and advancement of Korea’s aviation maintenance sector.

“We will work closely with the Incheon International Airport Corporation to ensure the seamless and timely progress of the project,” a Korean Air representative said.