SEOUL- Korean Air (KE) announced plans to develop a next-generation Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Aviation Safety R&D Centre in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province. The KRW 1.2 trillion investment aims to establish a major hub for future mobility and aerospace innovation in Korea.
The announcement came during a formal signing ceremony held on April 30 at the Bucheon Arts Centre. The ambitious project will break ground in 2027 with operations slated to begin in May 2030.
UAM Korea; Photo- Volocopter Korean Air Plans for UAM
The Bucheon centre will span over 65,800 square meters—equivalent to ten football fields—and employ more than 1,000 staff, including specialised researchers and instructors.
The formal signing ceremony at Bucheon Arts Centre included key figures at the event. Korean Air (KE) Vice Chairman Keehong Woo, Bucheon Mayor Yong-eek Cho, Korea Land and Housing Corporation CEO Han-Joon Lee, and Bucheon Urban Development Corporation CEO Myung-hee Won were some of the names.
UAM Illustration; Photo- NASA+Components For a Comprehensive Hub
The Bucheon facility integrates three strategic elements designed to advance aviation technology, training, and safety.
UAV Research Centre
This division will spearhead the development of advanced software and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for unmanned aerial vehicles. The research will support both commercial applications and defence-oriented aerospace innovation, positioning Korean Air (KE) at the forefront of autonomous flight technology.
Flight Training Centre
Set to become Asia’s largest pilot training facility, this centre will consolidate operations previously divided between Korean Air (KE) and recently-integrated Asiana Airlines (OZ).
The facility will expand from the current 18 flight simulators (12 from Korean Air, 6 from Asiana) to 30, enabling annual training capacity for up to 21,600 pilots.
Photo: BriYYZ | FlickrSafety Experience Centre
The third component focuses on enhancing workplace safety while fostering community engagement. This facility will provide immersive industrial safety training for airline personnel alongside educational programs designed for local businesses, students, and residents of Bucheon.
Photo: By Hyeonwoo Noh; Wikimedia CommonsStrategic Importance
The project represents a significant step in Korean Air’s evolution following its integration with Asiana Airlines (OZ). The airline views this investment as essential to strengthening its capabilities during this transitional period and establishing itself as a global leader in aviation innovation.
“This is more than just a facility; it’s the launchpad for Korea’s future in aviation,” a Korean Air (KE) spokesperson stated. “Through bold investments in research, training, and technology, we are laying the foundation to lead the future of air mobility while deepening our commitment to safety, sustainability and global connectivity.”
UAM Flight Korea by Volocopter; Photo- VolocopterAlignment with Corporate Mission
The Bucheon project exemplifies Korean Air’s corporate mission of “Connecting for a Better World.” The investment demonstrates the airline’s dedication to innovation, talent development, and building meaningful partnerships with local communities.
The centre’s development represents a significant vote of confidence in the future of aviation in Korea and positions the airline to capitalise on emerging technologies in the increasingly important urban air mobility sector.
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