Customer anxiety rises about Korean Air's takeover of Asiana

Customers are raising concerns about the possible impact of Korean Air's planned takeover of its smaller local rival Asiana Airlines as, if completed, the acquisition will grant the national flag carrier a dominant market position here that could lead to a rise in prices. Those who have used Asiana Airlines' membership reward program are also worried about the fate of their mileage points after the No. 2 carrier is acquired by Korean Air. On Monday, Korean Air and its holding company Hanjin KAL announced they would acquire the cash-strapped Asiana with the help of the state-run Korea Development Bank (KDB). If successful, Korea will have one mega airline that dominates the country's aviation industry and ranks within the global top 10. Given that the decision was made amid deepening financial difficulties in the aviation industry due to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, Korean Air is highly likely to adjust duplicate air routes between the two airlines and eliminate some that are losing money. Many consumers are expressing concerns on online communities that Korean Air, which will hold a monopoly status, could increase ticket prices while adjusting the air routes. The government stressed that customer benefits could be enhanced when air routes are adjusted. It also vowed to take appropriate measures to protect consumers. "We will offer aid in human resources required to explore new air routes or operate additional planes on existing routes, rather than focusing on removing money-losing routes," said Kim Sang-do who is in charge of aviation policies at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. He noted there would be no sudden increase in ticket prices as Korean Air has to compete with foreign airlines and LCCs.<br/>