Aero K Airlines further expanded its Japan routes to eight with the new launch of its Cheongju-Hiroshima service on July 16th. This new route marks a significant milestone in regional air transport history, as it's the first regular international route opened since Cheongju International Airport's inauguration in 1997. Aero K expects this launch to significantly improve accessibility to western Japan for residents of the Chungcheong region and contribute to vitalizing economic and cultural exchanges with Hiroshima.
On the day of the launch, a celebratory event was held at Cheongju Airport, attended by key officials including Aero K CEO Kang Byung-ho and Chungbuk Provincial Government Political Affairs Vice Governor Kim Su-min. Following this, in Hiroshima, numerous distinguished guests, including Hiroshima International Airport President Nakamura Yasuhiro, Hiroshima Prefecture Vice Governor, and the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Hiroshima, attended to congratulate the successful inaugural flight.
Notably, during the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for mutual cooperation to vitalize the Hiroshima route was signed between Aero K, Hiroshima International Airport Co., Ltd., and the Hiroshima Airport Promotion Council. Aero K CEO Kang Byung-ho stated, "The Hiroshima route will become a new bridge connecting Cheongju and Hiroshima, and the citizens of both regions," adding, "I am confident in the co-growth of Hiroshima and Aero K through this new service." This MOU signing ceremony pledges continuous cooperation between both parties to invigorate the route and is expected to lead to more diverse promotions and linked tourism product development in the future.
Four Flights Per Week Expected to Attract Hiroshima Tourists and Revitalize Local Economy
Aero K's Cheongju-Hiroshima route will operate four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday). Flights will depart from Cheongju International Airport at 1:45 PM and arrive at Hiroshima International Airport at 3:05 PM, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Return flights will depart from Hiroshima at 3:55 PM, arriving in Cheongju at 5:15 PM on Mondays and Fridays, 6:00 PM on Wednesdays, and 5:25 PM on Sundays.
Hiroshima is one of Japan's top 10 cities, boasting a rich historical heritage and beautiful natural environment, making it an attractive tourist destination. Besides historical sites like the Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Peace Memorial Park, and Atomic Bomb Dome, it offers a variety of culinary delights, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and various oyster dishes. In summer, lavender and sunflower festivals are also held, providing enjoyment for visitors. The opening of this route will allow Chungcheong region residents to visit Hiroshima more conveniently, which is expected to have a positive impact on attracting tourists to Hiroshima and revitalizing the local economy.
Accelerating International Competitiveness, Plans for Route Expansion to Major Asian Cities
Following the Hiroshima route, Aero K is preparing for the new launch of its Kitakyushu route on September 30th and plans to continue strengthening its international competitiveness by introducing two additional aircraft within the year. Through route expansion to major Asian cities such as Weihai, Yantai, Okinawa, Nha Trang, Cebu, and Macau, Aero K is expected to truly establish itself as a hub airline for the central region.
For more detailed information on Aero K's routes and reservations, please visit the official website (www.aerok.com) or contact the customer service center (help@aerok.com / ☎1899-2299). Attention is focused on what changes Aero K's aggressive international route expansion will bring to the domestic low-cost airline market.
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