Korean Air will resume nonstop service between Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Melbourne Airport (MEL) on December 18, 2026 — its first flights to the Australian city since 2013 — according to Business Traveller.
The seasonal service operates three times weekly on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays with Boeing 787-9 aircraft, running through March 14, 2027 to cover the Australian summer peak. Economy passengers on the 787-9 will find a 3-3-3 cabin with seat-back screens throughout. Business Travel News confirmed the December 18 start.
The route return follows the completion of the Asiana Airlines merger, with Korean Air effectively taking over Melbourne coverage that had previously been operated by Asiana. Business Traveller noted that the airline last served the city in 2013, making this a 13-year gap before the resumption. Melbourne adds a third Australian gateway for Korean Air alongside existing year-round services to Sydney and Brisbane.
The December 18 timing is designed to capture both Northern Hemisphere Christmas holiday outbound travel and the peak Australian summer leisure season. AviationShop confirmed the schedule: three times weekly from December 18 through March 14, 2027, with 787-9 equipment.
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