Last updated: November 2026
Quick answer: Korean hybrid carrier Air Premia plans to begin Incheon–Sapporo (New Chitose) flights on December 2, 2026, operating four times a week (Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday) on a Boeing 787-9. It is the airline’s second Japan destination after Tokyo Narita. The flights run in both directions, so they suit travelers in Seoul heading to Hokkaido’s ski season and visitors in Hokkaido adding a Korea leg.
When Does Air Premia’s Sapporo Route Start?
The first flight is scheduled for December 2, 2026, according to The Korea Times, with the same date and frequency listed in the winter 2026/27 schedule tracked by AeroRoutes. Service is planned for the winter season. Schedules can still change, so confirm the final timetable with the airline before you book non-refundable tickets.
What Are the Flight Days and Times?
Flights operate on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. As reported, the outbound flight leaves Incheon at about 9:40 AM and lands at New Chitose around 12:20 PM. The return leaves Sapporo at about 1:45 PM and reaches Incheon around 5:15 PM. Those times work well for a morning departure from Seoul and an afternoon arrival in Incheon, in time for the airport rail or limousine bus into the city. Our Incheon Airport to Seoul guide covers the options.
Which Aircraft Will Fly the Route?
Air Premia is using the Boeing 787-9, a widebody it normally flies on longer routes. Herald Corp reports the aircraft seats more than 300 passengers, which is a lot of capacity for a short Japan hop and a sign the airline expects strong winter demand. The 787-9 is also the type the carrier already flies on its Narita service.
Why Does This Matter for Travelers to Korea?
Hokkaido is one of the most popular winter destinations in Asia, and more nonstop options between Sapporo and Seoul make it easier to pair the two in one trip. A traveler can start in Seoul, see the lights and street food in winter in Seoul, then fly to Hokkaido for powder snow, or come the other way and add Korea to a Japan itinerary. Check the Korea entry requirements guide for your passport before the Korea leg. Incheon is also adding other services this season; our Incheon new routes roundup and the Korean Air Incheon–Oita report show what else is changing.
How Do I Compare Fares for Flights to Korea?
New routes often start with introductory fares, and Herald reported launch discounts that ran through September 30. For the Korea end of your trip, it is worth comparing flights into Seoul✈️ across airlines and dates, including one-way and open-jaw combinations that include Sapporo.
Quick Summary: Air Premia Incheon–Sapporo
- Start date: December 2, 2026 (winter season)
- Frequency: 4 per week (Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun)
- Outbound: Incheon about 9:40 AM, New Chitose about 12:20 PM
- Return: Sapporo about 1:45 PM, Incheon about 5:15 PM
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
- Note: Confirm times with the airline before booking
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