KE is the IATA designator for Korean Air, the flag carrier and largest airline of South Korea.
Understanding KE: Korean Air's IATA Designator
The "KE" code is a vital two-character identifier used throughout the global aviation industry. It officially represents Korean Air, an influential airline headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, known for its extensive network across Asia Pacific and beyond.
Korean Air operates under the full legal name Korean Air Lines Co., Ltd. and utilizes the airline code 180 in addition to its IATA designator 'KE'. The airline plays a significant role in connecting the Republic of Korea with destinations worldwide, transporting both passengers and cargo.
Here’s a summary of key information regarding Korean Air and its identifiers:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Airline Name | Korean Air |
| Legal Name | Korean Air Lines Co., Ltd. |
| IATA Designator | KE |
| Airline Code | 180 |
| Region | Asia Pacific |
| Country | Republic of Korea (South Korea) |
As one of the world's leading airlines, Korean Air maintains a modern fleet and offers services connecting major cities across continents, contributing significantly to global air travel and logistics.
The Role of IATA Codes in Aviation
IATA (International Air Transport Association) designators, such as 'KE', are standardized two-character codes that are fundamental to streamlining global air travel operations. These codes ensure clarity and efficiency across various aviation processes:
- Flight Numbering: They precede the numerical part of a flight number (e.g., KE017 for a specific Korean Air flight).
- Ticketing & Reservations: IATA codes are prominently featured on flight tickets, boarding passes, and within airline reservation systems.
- Baggage Handling: They are crucial for accurately tracking and routing luggage, especially when transfers between different airlines are involved.
- Industry Communication: These codes facilitate clear and concise communication among airlines, airports, air traffic control, and travel agencies globally.
For a comprehensive list of airline codes and their respective carriers, you can refer to official aviation resources like the IATA Airline Members directory.
