 |
Photo = Yonhap news |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] SEOUL, South Korea – June 12, 2025 — South Korean low-cost carrier Jin Air has denied recent allegations of a pilot shortage and excessive flight scheduling, following the circulation of an anonymous post on the workplace community platform Blind, warning travelers to avoid flying with the airline during the peak summer season.
In the post, a user claiming to be a current Jin Air captain warned that a shortage of pilots could lead to flight disruptions in July and August, citing high resignation rates and excessive workloads among remaining flight crews. The post also suggested that accumulated fatigue among pilots was posing a safety risk to passengers.
Jin Air currently operates a fleet of 31 aircraft. According to South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT), airlines are advised to staff six captains and six first officers per aircraft, amounting to a recommended minimum of 372 pilots for Jin Air.
As of this month, Jin Air reported a total of 543 pilots, including those in training. Even excluding trainees, the airline said it maintains 435 active pilots, exceeding the regulatory recommendation. A company spokesperson noted, “While we currently have fewer first officers than captains, our staffing remains in line with MOLIT’s guidelines, with approximately seven captains and seven first officers per aircraft.”
Jin Air emphasized that flight safety remains its top priority and that the airline will continue to comply with all staffing and safety standards mandated by regulatory authorities.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
