Eastar Jet recorded the highest average passenger load factor among domestic airlines in the first half of 2026.
The airline announced on August 6 that its average load factor from January to June reached 93%. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's aviation information portal, Eastar Jet operated approximately 20,000 flights across about 40 routes for domestic departures and international arrivals and departures during the first half of the year. Out of a total of 3.7 million seats available, 3.43 million passengers boarded, resulting in an average load factor of 93%.
This figure is 4 percentage points higher than the average load factor of 89% for domestic airlines, making it the highest among its peers. Eastar Jet achieved a 90% load factor for the entire year last year, securing the top position among domestic airlines, and has maintained the highest load factor in the first half of this year.
Other low-cost carriers (LCCs) reported load factors of 91% for Jeju Air, 89% for T'way Air, and 88% for Jin Air. Major airlines (FSCs) Korean Air and Asiana Airlines both recorded load factors of 87%.
Eastar Jet attributed its high load factor to improvements in user services and increased investments in safety. The airline simplified the ticket purchasing process through a website redesign and enhanced user convenience by providing chatbot services, airport parking congestion information, and gate details. Additionally, it offers a 'flight mode service' that allows passengers to use mobile apps without internet connectivity during flights.
An Eastar Jet representative stated, "Under the company's brand philosophy, we will enhance our services to ensure that customers have a seamless and convenient experience throughout their travel journey."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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