Fair Trade Commission Rejects Korean Air-Asiana Mileage Integration Plan

The Fair Trade Commission has rejected Korean Air's 'Korean Air-Asiana Airlines Mileage Integration Plan', stating that it requires revisions.

On the 12th, the Commission announced, "We immediately requested Korean Air to modify and improve the submitted integration plan."

The Commission explained, "There were shortcomings in the mileage usage options compared to those previously offered by Asiana Airlines," adding, "We determined that the information regarding the mileage integration ratio and specific explanations were somewhat insufficient for the Commission to initiate a review."

Currently, the major concern for consumers is the integration ratio of the two airlines' mileage programs. However, the Commission has not disclosed specific plans regarding the integration from Korean Air.

The Commission stated, "At this time, it is deemed inappropriate to disclose the integration plan submitted by Korean Air to the public," and added, "After continuous modifications and improvements, we are also considering a procedure to gather opinions from various stakeholders and experts at an appropriate time."

Protecting consumer mileage during the airline integration process is a significant issue, and the Commission set forth the principle that "the trust of Asiana Airlines consumers must be protected, and no disadvantages should occur," emphasizing that "the rights of consumers from both Korean Air and Asiana Airlines should be balanced."

The Commission emphasized, "Since the mileage integration plan is a matter of public interest, it should be developed to meet the expectations and standards of the public," and stated, "We will conduct a thorough and careful review of the integration plan to ensure that ultimately a solution is approved that satisfies all airline consumers."

Image source: Fair Trade Commission / Insight, News1