Vancouver International Airport (YVR) marked a new milestone this week as it became the first airport in North America to welcome regular service from South Korean carrier T’way Air.

The airline’s inaugural flight from Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul arrived on July 12, launching four-times weekly, year-round service between the two cities.

The new route enhances YVR’s role as a major transpacific gateway and adds to the airport’s growing list of Asia-Pacific connections. T’way’s entry into the Canadian market not only increases travel options for passengers heading to South Korea and beyond but also adds vital cargo capacity to support B.C. and Canada’s export economy.

South Korea is currently YVR’s second-largest air export destination. In 2024, the airport set a new record for cargo, handling more than 339,000 tonnes of goods.

According to YVR, each new international route contributes directly to the local economy. The new Seoul route is expected to generate $39.8 million in economic output, $20.8 million in GDP and 237 full-time jobs in B.C.

To mark the occasion, Elders from Musqueam Nation, joined by Musqueam Councillor Morgan Guerin, performed traditional songs and raised hands to send passengers off on their journey. The event highlighted the ongoing partnership between Musqueam and YVR, formalized in the Musqueam-YVR Sustainability & Friendship Agreement – a 30-year commitment rooted in respect, reconciliation and shared prosperity.

T’way flights depart YVR at 5:25 p.m. local time and arrive in Seoul at 9:35 p.m. the next day. The airline is operating the route using an Airbus A330-300, configured with 347 seats including lie-flat options in its Business Saver class, and will carry approximately 2,700 passengers each week.

Founded in 2010, T’way Air is a low-cost airline serving more than 40 destinations in South Korea and internationally, including Europe, Asia, Australia and now North America through its new Vancouver service.

More information can be found at twayair.com.

Source: Travelweek