South Korea's two major carriers offer distinctly different experiences across the Pacific, with Asiana Airlines operating the modern A350-900 while Korean Air deploys its flagship A380. This comprehensive comparison examines both products on key routes like ICN-LAX and ICN-JFK, helping travelers make informed decisions for their trans-Pacific journeys.
Fleet and Aircraft Overview
Asiana's A350-900 features a three-class configuration with 311 seats: 28 Business Smartium seats, 36 Economy Smartium, and 247 standard economy seats. Korean Air's A380 is significantly larger, accommodating 407 passengers with 12 First Class suites, 94 Prestige (business) class seats, and 301 economy seats spread across two decks.
Business Class Comparison
Asiana's Business Smartium on the A350 offers a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access. The Stelia Aerospace seats convert to 77-inch fully-flat beds with 21-inch width. Korean Air's Prestige Class on the A380 features the Apex Suite in a 2-2-2 layout upstairs, with 74-inch bed length and superior privacy, particularly in window seats.
- Asiana A350 Business: 1-2-1 layout, 77" bed length, 21" width
- Korean Air A380 Prestige: 2-2-2 layout, 74" bed length, enhanced privacy
- Both offer lie-flat beds and premium bedding
Economy Class Experience
The A350's economy cabin features a 3-3-3 configuration with 18-inch seat width and 32-33 inch pitch. Economy Smartium offers additional legroom at 36 inches. The A380's economy section maintains a spacious 3-4-3 layout with 18.2-inch width and 32-34 inch pitch, slightly more generous than industry standards.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
Asiana's A350 features 18-inch HD screens in business and 11-inch screens in economy, with Wi-Fi available at $11.95/hour or $24.95 for full flight. Korean Air's A380 offers 15.6-inch screens in Prestige and 10.6-inch in economy, with Wi-Fi pricing slightly higher at $13.95/hour or $27.95 for full flight access.
Dining Service and Catering
Both airlines excel in catering, with notable differences. Asiana offers a hybrid Korean-Western menu with standout options like Ssambap in business class. Korean Air's renowned Celestial Bar on the A380's upper deck provides an exclusive social space with premium cocktails and snacks for business class passengers.
- Asiana features signature Korean dishes and Western alternatives
- Korean Air's Celestial Bar offers unique social experience
- Both airlines provide bibimbap as signature dish
Route Network and Pricing
As of 2024, business class fares on these routes typically range from $3,200-4,800 round-trip, with Korean Air generally commanding a slight premium. Economy fares usually start from $800-1,200 round-trip, varying significantly by season. Korean Air offers more frequent departures and better connection options through ICN.
Loyalty Program Comparison
Korean Air's SKYPASS program typically offers better award availability and more partner redemption options compared to Asiana Club. Business class awards on these routes cost 125,000-150,000 miles round-trip on Korean Air, versus 140,000-165,000 miles on Asiana.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
The Asiana A350 offers a more modern, fuel-efficient experience with superior business class seating configuration. However, Korean Air's A380 provides unique amenities like the Celestial Bar and generally better award availability. For business travelers, Asiana's A350 layout edges out with direct aisle access. Economy passengers might prefer the A380's slightly wider seats and more spacious feel.