The planned merger of Asiana Airlines and Korean Air is taking shape, because the competition authority gave the green light. This means that Korean Air can in all probability take over the ailing competitor.

However, various concessions have to be made. Among other things, slots must be returned to the regulator, especially in traffic within South Korea. If possible, this will be given to other carriers. Some international routes are also affected, as the two providers would otherwise have a monopoly on them. The take-off and landing rights are to be given to other airlines in order to ensure more competition.

However, the approval process is not completely “through” yet, as the EU, the USA, China, Japan, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom, among others, still have to give the green light. Korean Air expects to receive this in the course of the first quarter of 2022. It is to be expected that further conditions will be made.