Korean Air's Boeing 787-10 Begins Operations with New Prestige Class Seats

Korean Air has received its first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, set to commence operations on July 25 with an inaugural flight from Seoul Incheon to Tokyo Narita. This new-generation, eco-friendly aircraft features advanced technology, superior fuel efficiency, and reduced carbon emissions.

Introducing the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner

Aircraft Features and Efficiency

The Boeing 787-10 is the largest model in the Dreamliner series, featuring a fuselage that spans 68.3 meters, approximately five meters longer than the 787-9. This extra length allows the 787-10 to carry 15% more passengers and cargo. Built with carbon composite materials, the aircraft offers enhanced efficiency, passenger comfort, reliability, and operational capabilities, boasting over 20% lower carbon emissions compared to similar-sized aircraft.

Advanced Engine and Wing Technology

The 787-10's wings and engines are designed with advanced technologies to maximize efficiency. The wingtips feature raked wing tips, which improve takeoff and climb performance, enhancing fuel efficiency. The aircraft is powered by advanced GEnx-1B74/75 engines from General Electric, known for their performance and reliability on the Boeing 787-9. These engines also include chevron nozzles that significantly reduce noise from engine exhaust.

New Prestige Suites 2.0

Luxurious Business Class Experience

Korean Air's newly introduced Prestige Class seats, "Prestige Suites 2.0," offer passengers a luxurious travel experience. The design incorporates traditional Korean patterns like "Jogakbo" patchwork to showcase Korea's cultural beauty. The cabin interior features cream and gold hues, inspired by Joseon Dynasty porcelain and brassware, creating a warm and elegant atmosphere. Shades of charcoal and black with a blue tint add a sense of stability.

Innovative Seat Design

The Prestige Suites 2.0 prioritize passenger privacy with an innovative design that functions as virtually independent spaces. The seats fully recline to a flat 180 degrees, transforming into beds. They also feature extended lengths, generous seat pitch, and widths to ensure ample personal space. Additional conveniences include expanded personal space next to the armrest, a table for cups and small items, personal storage compartments, wireless phone chargers, dual outlets, and high-speed USB-C ports.

Economy Class Comfort

Enhanced Passenger Experience

The economy class seats are arranged in a 3-3-3 configuration with vibrant woven patterns of bold colors, creating a lively atmosphere. The seats offer a recline of up to 120 degrees with adjustable headrests for optimal comfort. They also provide high-resolution monitors supporting 4K resolution for an enhanced inflight entertainment experience.

Korean Air’s Aerospace Contributions

Significant Role in Boeing’s 787 Program

Korean Air’s Aerospace Division in Busan manufactured key components for the 787-10, such as the aft body, raked wing tips, and flap support fairings. As a major partner in Boeing’s 787 program since 2006, Korean Air has played a crucial role in the design and production of the 787 aircraft.

Future Deployment Plans

Strategic Route Deployment

Korean Air plans to utilize the 787-10 on key trunk routes, leveraging its range, new hard products, and high fuel efficiency. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on short-haul routes to stabilize operations before being used on long-haul routes such as Seoul Incheon-Vancouver. The airline intends to expand the 787-10’s deployment to other high-demand routes, including destinations in the western United States and Europe.