Denver International Airport (DEN) is considering the introduction of nonstop flights to South Korea, potentially expanding the presence of the Airbus A380 at the facility. An online survey has been launched to assess passenger interest in this new route, following the successful commercial debut of the A380 at DEN by Lufthansa on April 30, 2025. This development suggests the possibility of another major airline, Korean Air, operating its superjumbo aircraft to the Colorado airport.
The airport’s survey, titled the South Korea Air Travel Survey, aims to gather insights on the demand for nonstop services to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN). Denver has been actively expanding its global destinations, and this initiative signifies its commitment to enhancing international connectivity. The airport’s management stated that they are “analyzing the feasibility of nonstop flights to South Korea in order to support increased connectivity” for business, education, cultural exchanges, and leisure travel.
Korean Air, a member of the SkyTeam alliance, currently operates five Airbus A380 aircraft, with plans to acquire more amid its merger with Asiana Airlines. These aircraft, with an average age of 11.7 years, are primarily utilized on routes to major cities like Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), Taipei (TPE), and Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT). The A380s are configured in a three-class layout, accommodating a total of 407 passengers, including 12 first-class seats that offer direct aisle access.
Lufthansa’s recent operations at Denver have set a positive precedent for A380 services. Initially planned to run until September 30, 2025, the airline extended its A380 flights due to high demand, which led to an announcement that the aircraft would return for the summer schedule starting June 9, 2026. The success of these flights underscores the potential viability of additional A380 operations at DEN.
As Denver International Airport moves forward with its survey and analysis, it remains to be seen whether Korean Air will be the next airline to link the Mile High City with Seoul. The airport’s ambitions to welcome another A380 operator highlight its ongoing commitment to enhancing global travel options for passengers. Simple Flying has reached out to DEN for further comments on these developments.
