Kagoshima Airport expands South Korean flights to record 28 weekly services

Kagoshima Airport has entered its winter flight schedule with a record-breaking 28 weekly flights connecting the region to South Korea. This increase includes the launch of the first direct service between Kagoshima and Busan via Air Busan, alongside continued operations by Korean Air, Jeju Air, and Eastar Jet.

The surge in flights is largely driven by demand from South Korean golf tourists, who are drawn to the region by high-quality facilities and lower costs compared to South Korea. Local businesses, such as the Satsuma Golf Resort, have seen significant inbound interest, with many facilities now catering specifically to Korean visitors.

However, the seasonal disparity in flight frequency presents challenges. While winter sees up to 28 flights per week, summer schedules drop to just three. This fluctuation impacts tourism stability and complicates ground handling operations, as aviation service providers struggle to maintain specialized technical skills and safety standards during periods of low activity. Experts suggest that maintaining consistent, year-round service and fostering cooperation between Kyushu's regional airports will be essential for sustainable growth.