Eastar Jet Overview
Pro stress-test →Eastar Jet is a South Korean low-cost carrier founded in 2007 and headquartered in Seoul. The airline primarily operates from its main hub at Seoul's Gimpo International Airport with additional bases at Cheongju International Airport and Seoul Incheon International Airport, serving a network of domestic and international routes focused on Asia. Following a complete shutdown during the pandemic, private equity firm VIG Partners acquired 100% of the airline in January 2023 for approximately $30 million and invested over $200 billion KRW to stabilize operations and fund operational resumption.
Strategic Profile
Pro stress-test →The airline restarted domestic flights on March 29, 2023, after a hiatus of over three years, initially operating with four aircraft; international operations resumed on September 3, 2023. As of November 2025, Eastar Jet's fleet consists of 19 narrow-body aircraft comprising 10 Boeing 737-800s and 9 Boeing 737 MAX 8s. The airline plans to expand its fleet to 27 aircraft by 2026, with seven deliveries in 2025 and five in 2026. Eastar Jet will increase Fukuoka–Seoul Incheon services to 4 daily round trips beginning August 14, 2026.
Competitive Landscape
Pro stress-test →Eastar Jet competes in South Korea's highly competitive aviation market dominated by established carriers like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. As a low-cost operator, Eastar Jet is rapidly expanding regional routes across Northeast and Southeast Asia, positioning itself against regional LCCs in Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian markets with focus on secondary airports and price-sensitive leisure travelers.
Industry Context
Eastar Jet operates in Low-cost airline carriers.
Key facts
Founded: 2007 · Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea