Denver International Airport (DEN) is considering the introduction of nonstop flights to South Korea, potentially expanding its Airbus A380 operations. Following the successful launch of Lufthansa’s A380 service from Munich to Denver in April 2025, the airport has conducted an online survey to gauge passenger interest in a new route to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN). This initiative could pave the way for another major airline, specifically Korean Air, to operate its superjumbo jets to Colorado.
The airport’s outreach, highlighted on its Facebook page, announced the launch of the South Korea Air Travel Survey. This brief questionnaire aims to assess the demand for nonstop flights to South Korea, with DEN stating, “Since 1995, we’ve been growing our global destinations – and now we’re exploring demand for nonstop flights to South Korea.” While United Airlines is a prominent candidate for the route, given its status as a Star Alliance founding member and a major hub in Denver, Korean Air’s involvement could introduce additional A380 flights to the region.
Korean Air currently operates five Airbus A380 aircraft, with plans to expand its fleet as it merges with Asiana Airlines. The airline’s A380s have an average age of 11.7 years and are configured to accommodate 407 passengers in a three-class layout. These aircraft are primarily serving routes from Seoul to major cities including Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), and Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT).
The upper deck of Korean Air’s A380 is exclusively designated for ‘Prestige’ business class, featuring 94 flatbeds arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration, which does not provide direct aisle access for all passengers. The lower deck includes 12 first class flatbeds in a 1-2-1 layout, ensuring all seats have direct aisle access. The remainder of the lower deck comprises 301 economy seats arranged in a 3-4-3 configuration.
The exploration of nonstop flights to South Korea comes at a time when airlines are facing delays in acquiring new aircraft, leading to extended service periods for existing fleets. This trend is not unique to Korean Air, as Lufthansa also plans to continue its successful A380 operations. Following the inaugural flights to Denver, Lufthansa announced it would return its A380 service to the airport in summer 2026, starting June 9.
Denver International Airport’s ambition to secure another A380 operator underscores its commitment to expanding global connectivity. The outcomes of the survey could significantly influence the feasibility of establishing this new route. With the growing interest in long-haul travel and the success of previous A380 operations, Denver is poised to enhance its international presence should Korean Air decide to connect the Mile High City with Seoul.
As developments unfold, Denver International Airport is keenly analyzing passenger feedback and market conditions to assess the potential for nonstop flights to South Korea, promising an exciting chapter in its aviation landscape.
