Airline and airport executives, staff and passengers gathered Friday, July 25, at Dulles International Airport (IAD) to celebrate 30 years of air service on Korean Air. The milestone event was held at gate A32, where a newly branded Boeing 777-300ER arrived on the nonstop daily flight from Seoul, South Korea.  

Korean Air aircraft arrives at the gate at Dulles International Airport  

Speaking at the event on behalf of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Vice President for Airline Business Development Paul Bobson said, “International air service on Korean Air is critical to the success of our local economy. Each flight supports thousands of local jobs, and Korean Air’s daily flight between Washington and Seoul generates more than 60 million dollars in positive local economic impact.”

Leaders from the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and Korean Air joined together in cutting a ribbon at the gate.

Passengers attending the celebration were treated to a vibrant cultural performance by the JUB Cultural Center, featuring traditional Korean fan dancing and drumming. A special surprise awaited the 30th passenger to check in, who won a complimentary round-trip ticket courtesy of Korean Air. Aviation enthusiasts enjoyed an exclusive tour of the airport, including a front-row view of the aircraft landing and a close-up look at its refreshed branding. Closing out of the event, all passengers received gifts to remember the special occasion.

Over the past three decades, Korean Air has connected our nation’s capital with Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul, transporting nearly 3.5 million passengers. In 2024, Korean Air carried over 170,000 travelers between IAD and ICN. Korean Air flights contribute an estimated $60 million in local economic impact in the National Capital Region each year.