Last updated: November 2026
Quick answer: Korean Air restarts nonstop Melbourne–Seoul (Incheon) flights on December 18, 2026, its first Melbourne service since 2013. The seasonal route runs three times a week — Wednesday, Friday and Sunday — on a Boeing 787-9 until March 14, 2027. It lands in Seoul at 07:35, early enough to start a day in the city.
When Do the Korean Air Melbourne–Incheon Flights Run?
The service operates December 18, 2026 to March 14, 2027, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Trade press including Travel Weekly Australia’s report on the return to Melbourne describes it as a 13-year gap since Korean Air last flew the route. It is a summer-season service for Australians and a winter-season one for Korea, so it is not a year-round link. Airlines can adjust seasonal schedules, so confirm the dates on the airline’s site when you book.
What Are the Flight Times and Aircraft?
Flight KE409 leaves Incheon at 08:00 and reaches Melbourne at 20:30. The return, KE410, departs Melbourne at 22:00 and lands in Incheon at 07:35 the next morning. The aircraft is a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. For travelers from Victoria, the overnight departure means you sleep on the plane and arrive in Seoul for a full first day, though your hotel room may not be ready that early — ask about luggage storage or early check-in.
Why Is Korean Air Flying to Melbourne Again?
The seasonal Melbourne flights were previously run by Asiana Airlines. With the two carriers combining, Korean Air is taking the route over; our explainer on the Korean Air–Asiana merger covers what the change means for passengers and loyalty miles. The timing also lines up with Australian school holidays and the southern summer, when demand for cold-weather trips north is highest.
What Should Australian Visitors Plan for in Seoul?
Arriving in December through March means real winter: expect sub-zero mornings, so read the winter in Seoul guide before packing. Most Australian passport holders should check current rules in the Korea entry requirements guide before they fly. On arrival, the Incheon Airport to Seoul guide compares the AREX train, buses and taxis, and the guide to getting around Seoul covers transit cards. For other recent airport additions, see the Incheon Airport new routes 2026 roundup.
How Do I Compare Fares and Book?
Seasonal routes with three weekly flights fill quickly around Christmas and New Year, so book early. To see how this nonstop stacks up against one-stop options, compare current Melbourne–Seoul fares✈️ for your dates. After you land, our guide to where to stay in Seoul helps you pick a neighborhood.
Quick Summary: Korean Air Melbourne–Incheon
- Operating period: December 18, 2026 – March 14, 2027 (seasonal)
- Frequency: Three times a week — Wed, Fri, Sun
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
- Incheon → Melbourne (KE409): 08:00 → 20:30
- Melbourne → Incheon (KE410): 22:00 → 07:35 (+1 day)
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