As we enter 2007, cargo is still hot business and Korean Airlines is grabbing a piece of the action by joining the service providers at Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Twice a week service by Korean Air Lines Co. Ltd. is scheduled to begin Jan. 25th making the air carrier the first Korean-flagship airline to serve the Houston market.

“This is great news for Houston’s growing air cargo industry and our Korean-American community,” said Rick Vacar, director of the Houston Airport System. “We have been working with Korean Air for some time to make this new flight reality.” Major imports from Korea include electrical machinery, equipment and parts, while the strongest export market is in petroleum exploration equipment, followed by industrial equipment and computers.

“We look forward to serving the Houston market and its growing business ties with Korea and Asia,” said Derek Han, vice president cargo Americas for Korean Air. “Houston’s dynamic business and logistics climate makes this an easy decision for us, and we expect a long and prosperous presence in Houston.”

Among air exports originating in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi, Houston is the fastest-growing gateway for U.S. air exports, by weight, to South Korea.

Korean Air Lines will begin service with a leased 747-400F freighter aircraft.

South Korea is one of Houston’s top dozen international trading partners. Bush Intercontinental Airport is gaining traction in the fiercely competitive Asian Pacific rim market.

China Airlines Ltd. started cargo service to IAH in September and due to heavy demand, quickly added increased service.

The new Korean Air service marks the second Asian cargo destination for Houston in just three months. 

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