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Korean Air and Asiana Secure Final Approvals, Set December Merger

Regulators must still decide how to treat Asiana’s mileage program as the carriers finish safety certifications and systems integration before the planned December 17 handover.

Overview

  • Asiana shareholders approved the merger on Wednesday with 81.86% turnout and 99.3% of votes cast in favor, and Korean Air’s board ratified the deal the same day.
  • The corporate merger registration and operational launch are scheduled for December 17, 2026, and Asiana will leave the Star Alliance on December 16, 2026.
  • South Korea’s transport ministry gave conditional approval on June 25 and the merger registration statement was cleared on July 24, clearing major regulatory hurdles.
  • The two carriers are now focused on Air Operator Certificate amendments, international permit changes, systems integration, joint training and other post-merger work needed to operate as one airline.
  • A pending Fair Trade Commission decision on how Asiana’s frequent‑flyer miles will be handled could affect customers’ balances and influence future competition and fares on routes to and from South Korea.