# Korean Air reports strong cargo growth in quarterly results

- **Source:** https://pelavox.com/korean-air-reports-strong-cargo-growth-in-quarterly-results/
- **Publisher:** pelavox. (The voice of shipping)
- **Author:** Helena Pierce
- **Published:** 2026-10-16T00:32:00+00:00
- **Updated:** 2026-10-16T08:13:50+00:00
- **Section:** Business / Company Results
- **Type:** News
- **Topics:** Air Cargo, Airline Financial Results, Artificial Intelligence, Freight Demand, Korean Air, Semiconductors, South Korea

Demand for AI and semiconductor components supported the airline’s freight business during the third quarter, alongside record overall revenue.

Korean Air reported strong growth in its air cargo business during the third quarter of 2026, supported by sustained demand for high-value technology shipments and adjustments to freight capacity across its international network.

According to the airline’s preliminary non-consolidated financial results, cargo revenue reached KRW 1.4323 trillion (approximately $1.05 billion), compared with KRW 1.0667 trillion in the corresponding period of 2025.

The increase of KRW 365.6 billion represented year-on-year growth of approximately 34.3%, reflecting continued demand for artificial intelligence and semiconductor components.

## Technology shipments support cargo performance

Korean Air attributed the expansion of its cargo business to steady demand for high-value freight, particularly components used in AI-related technologies and semiconductor manufacturing.

The airline also reported that it adjusted cargo capacity in response to changing demand across regional markets, seeking to improve the profitability of its freight operations.

Looking ahead to the fourth quarter, Korean Air expects demand from the AI and semiconductor sectors to remain an important contributor to its cargo business.

The airline plans to deploy capacity flexibly during the traditional year-end peak shipping season, although it has not provided a separate cargo revenue forecast.

## Airline records higher revenue and operating profit

Korean Air’s total third-quarter revenue reached KRW 5.0448 trillion, an increase of 26% compared with the same period last year and the highest quarterly revenue reported by the company.

Operating profit increased by 12% to KRW 421.2 billion, despite continued pressure from elevated fuel costs.

Net income rose to KRW 929.7 billion from KRW 91.9 billion a year earlier. The airline attributed part of the increase to favourable foreign exchange translation effects following a decline in the USD/KRW exchange rate towards the end of the quarter.

Passenger revenue also increased, reaching KRW 2.9174 trillion, supported by inbound travel demand and connecting passenger traffic through Incheon.

Korean Air expects fuel cost pressures to continue into the fourth quarter and intends to manage its passenger and cargo capacity according to market conditions.

The airline also referred to ongoing preparations for a planned integration on 17 December, without providing further details in the financial announcement.

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Cite as: "Korean Air reports strong cargo growth in quarterly results", pelavox., 16 October 2026, https://pelavox.com/korean-air-reports-strong-cargo-growth-in-quarterly-results/