Pet Travel Surges in South Korea

In the wake of stiff competition, Korean carriers have rolled out pet-related amenities to entice passengers.

A Jeju Air 737-800 in Seoul (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Ben Suskind)

[ News ]August 21, 2024 3:55 pm ET

By Pete Ainsley

Traveling with pets can be stressful, with many arranged in the cargo hold. However, Korean carriers successfully introduced a new business model as Koreans are willing to take their pets to the skies at a reasonable price.

The country has experienced a pet travel boom; Jeju Air and Korean Air have seen an increase of 10.9% and 19.2% simultaneously, compared to the same time last year.

In the meantime, Eastar Jet will go further in expanding its pet-friendly service on select international flights, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Bangkok. The new services welcome dogs, cats, and birds over eight weeks old on board, with a maximum of one pet allowed per passenger. But pets must comply with the quarantine rules.

Regardless of domestic and international routes, the pets must stay in carriers placed under the seat in front of the owners and cannot be taken out during the flight.

Special Flight For Pets and Their Owners

Earlier this year, Jeju Air rolled out a pet-only flight, operating from Seoul Gimpo International Airport to Jeju allowing the passengers to sit in their adjacent seats with their pets. The return fare for each dog with one owner was 440,000 won ($330) and 660,000 won ($500) for two owners. The fare was a little higher than usual but sold like hotcakes.

The special flight came after the surge in demand of pet travel across the country in 2023. Jeju Air recorded 17,698 pets in 2023, a 152% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

By popular demand, airlines have introduced pet-related content to the four-legged friends. Asiana Airlines offers a travel kit, including food, toys, and utensils as Jeju introduces a “Pet Meal.” Korean Air has introduced “Sky Pet” with the aim of enticing customers traveling with pets, similar to the frequent flyer programs. The pet can receive a discounted fare after traveling more frequently.