Korean Air to Build $119 Billion Mega Maintenance Hangar at Incheon

Korean Air is enhancing its maintenance capabilities with plans to build a state-of-the-art aircraft hangar at Incheon International Airport (ICN). This initiative is part of the airline’s aspiration to emerge as a leading player in the global maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) sector.

The airline entered into a partnership on November 24, 2025, with Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC) to invest KRW 176 billion (around US$119 million) into the H3 Maintenance Facility Development Project.

This significant agreement was witnessed by over 90 representatives from governmental bodies, local authorities, and the National Assembly, highlighting its importance for South Korea’s aviation industry.

Beyond Just Infrastructure

Vice Chairman Keehong Woo emphasized that the new facility represents more than just a physical structure.

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

The project’s scale is impressive. Covering an area of 69,299 square meters within Incheon’s High Tech Aviation Complex, the hangar will be equipped to accommodate two widebody aircraft and one narrowbody simultaneously. This capacity is pivotal as Korean Air prepares to integrate operations with Asiana Airlines.

Crucial Infrastructure Development

Construction is set to begin in 2027, with plans to commence operations by late 2029. Once up and running, the facility will employ approximately 300 maintenance professionals who will carry out everything from routine airframe inspections to intricate heavy maintenance and aircraft modifications.

This timing aligns with Korean Air’s strategic move to launch its integrated carrier following the Asiana merger. This new hangar is poised to become a crucial component in managing an expanded fleet and establishing Incheon as Asia’s premier MRO hub.

“We will work closely with Incheon International Airport Corporation to ensure the seamless and timely progress of the project,” a representative from Korean Air mentioned. “Guided by our Safety First principle, Korean Air will continue to drive innovation and transformation as we aim to become the world’s most beloved airline.”

This hangar is just one aspect of Korean Air’s broader infrastructure strategy. Simultaneously, the airline is developing a KRW 578 billion (approximately US$391 million) engine maintenance facility on Yeongjong Island, expected to be the largest in Asia. Additionally, they are investing in a KRW 1.2 trillion (around US$812 million) Future Urban Air Mobility & Aviation Safety R&D Center in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province.