Korean Air to build major UAM and safety research centre in Bucheon by 2030

Korean Air is investing KRW 1.2 trillion to build a next-generation Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Aviation Safety R&D Centre in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, creating a major hub for future mobility and aerospace innovation in Korea.

Details on Korean Air’s research centre 

This bold initiative underlines Korean Air’s long-term vision to lead the future of aviation through advanced technology, world-class training, and sustainable development. The centre will act as a core base for research, pilot training, and aviation safety, enhancing the airline’s capabilities as it moves forward following its integration with Asiana Airlines.

On 30 April, Korean Air formalised the project at a signing ceremony with Bucheon City at the Bucheon Arts Centre. Attendees included Keehong Woo, Vice Chairman of Korean Air; Yong-eek Cho, Mayor of Bucheon; Han-Joon Lee, CEO of Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH); and Myung-hee Won, CEO of Bucheon Urban Development Corporation.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with operations set to commence in May 2030. Spanning over 65,800 square metres—around the size of ten football pitches—the centre will accommodate over 1,000 staff, including specialist researchers and instructors.

The facility will feature three key components:

UAV Research Centre – Focused on software and AI for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), supporting both commercial and defence aerospace innovation.

Flight Training Centre – Asia’s largest pilot training site, combining Korean Air and Asiana operations. The number of simulators will rise from 18 to 30, enabling training for up to 21,600 pilots annually.

Safety Experience Centre – Offering immersive safety training for staff and educational programmes for local businesses, students, and residents.

“This is more than just a facility; it’s the launchpad for Korea’s future in aviation,” said a Korean Air spokesperson. “Through bold investments in research, training, and technology, we are laying the foundation to lead the future of air mobility while deepening our commitment to safety, sustainability and global connectivity.”

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