Jeju Air Promotes Safety and Profitability Enhancement Through Fleet Modernization

"Provided by: Jeju Air"

Jeju Air (CEO Kim Yi-bae) announced on March 20th that it has purchased and introduced its 10th next-generation B737-8 aircraft, further accelerating its fleet modernization.

This marks the second introduction of the B737-8 planned for this year (a total of 7 aircraft), bringing the total number of next-generation aircraft to 10 and the total fleet to 44 passenger planes.

Jeju Air began its fleet renewal in earnest in 2023 with the introduction of two B737-8s. In 2024, the company plans to introduce six more, while also returning two leased aircraft older than 20 years. After introducing the 9th aircraft in early February of this year, the 10th aircraft was introduced approximately one month later, accelerating efforts to improve safety and operational quality, as well as strengthen its profitability.

The expansion of next-generation aircraft is also contributing to improved profitability. The company achieved a turnaround to profitability in the fourth quarter of 2025, the first time in five quarters since the third quarter of 2024. This is attributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced fuel costs due to the increased proportion of next-generation aircraft. In fact, fuel costs in 2025 are projected to decrease by approximately 16% compared to the same period in 2024. Jeju Air plans to continue improving fuel efficiency and optimizing its cost structure through the introduction of next-generation aircraft.

A Jeju Air representative stated, "To respond to an increasingly uncertain business environment, including fluctuations in crude oil prices and exchange rates, as well as the restructuring and intensifying competition in the aviation market, we are focusing on management that emphasizes substance this year." The representative added, "We will proceed with the introduction of seven next-generation aircraft and the retirement of older planes in parallel, focusing on strengthening profitability and financial soundness rather than expanding scale. We will also increase investment in initiatives to restore trust, such as strengthening our safety management system and improving key operational infrastructure."