Korean Air at Incheon Airport. Photo: jhxfilm / Shutterstock It's official: South Korea's national flag carrier, Korean Air, has received its sixth consecutive 5-Star Airline certification by global air transport rating agency SKYTRAX, at the end of a long and comprehensive audit started in January 2026.
The airline managed to retain its spot in the exclusive group of 10 international airline companies "recognized for their excellent service standards and passenger experience."
The evaluation covered everything all front-line service points across the carrier's global operations, including airport services (baggage handling, check-ins, lounges, boarding, transfers), cabin seating, dining experiences, available in-flight amenities and entertainment, as well as cabin crew performance in First, Business, and Economy Class.
The rating agency found that the airline's seats offer "a strong balance of space, comfort, and privacy," while "cabin interiors were found to maintain consistent cleanliness and high presentation standards."
In terms of onboard catering, SKYTRAX emphasized the quality of the served meals, as well as the ingredient sourcing, and overall presentation, describing the standards as "particularly good from the airline’s homebase in Seoul Incheon," and staff service consistency as "excellent in all travel cabins".
Recently, Korean Air announced its new flagship Incheon First and Prestige Class lounges at its hub airport of Seoul Incheon Airport.
Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted: "The Certification of Korean Air with the highest 5-Star Airline Rating for 2026 confirms the airline’s consistent focus on delivering a high-quality passenger experience. This 5-Star Airline Rating clearly demonstrates that Korean Air continues to excel in key areas such as cabin comfort, catering, and a very accomplished service delivery both onboard and on each flight.”