South Korea’s newest budget carrier, Parata Airlines, has been granted its air operator’s certificate (AOC) by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, clearing the way for its launch later this month.
The airline will begin operations on domestic routes from Yangyang International Airport, with services to Jeju, before gradually expanding its network.
An AOC certifies that an airline has the staff, facilities and maintenance systems required to operate safely in line with government standards. Parata Airlines secured approval under rules that were recently tightened.
The carrier is the rebranded successor to Fly Gangwon, which was acquired last year by South Korean home appliance company Winix.
Under its new ownership, the airline plans to evolve into a hybrid operator, using both small and large aircraft.
Parata is now preparing for ticket sales and the launch of its website. Chief executive Yoon Chul-min said: “We will do our best to provide reasonable and differentiated services, with safe operation as our top priority.”
The airline has recruited new staff and introduced two aircraft as part of its preparations for service.