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Korean Air vs Japan Airlines
A side-by-side comparison of pilot careers at Korean Air (KE) and Japan Airlines (JL) — covering salary, fleet, requirements, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Korean Air
Japan Airlines
Country
South Korea
Japan
Airline Type
Major Airline
Major Airline
IATA Code
KE
JL
Regulatory Authority
FAA
FAA
First Officer Salary
₩60,000,000 - ₩100,000,000
¥7,000,000 - ¥12,000,000
Captain Salary
₩120,000,000 - ₩200,000,000
¥15,000,000 - ¥25,000,000
Fleet
Boeing 737/747/777/787, Airbus A220/330/380
Boeing 737/767/777/787, Airbus A350
Requirements Comparison
Korean Air
- ICAO ATPL
- 2,500+ hours on jets
- Class 1 medical
- Korean language helpful
Japan Airlines
- JCAB ATPL or ICAO equivalent
- Class 1 medical
- Japanese language required for domestic operations
Pros & Cons
Korean Air
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –Local language proficiency preferred
Japan Airlines
Pros
- +Modern fleet with 787 Dreamliner
- +Simplified fleet — fewer type ratings needed
Cons
- –Local language proficiency preferred
About Each Airline
Korean Air
South Korea's largest airline operates an extensive network across Asia, the Americas, and Europe from its Seoul-Incheon hub.
Full Korean Air career guide →Japan Airlines
Japan's prestigious flag carrier is known for exceptional service standards and modern fleet operations.
Full Japan Airlines career guide →Calculate Your Salary
Model your earning potential at Korean Air or Japan Airlines based on your experience, ratings, and career stage.
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