On 1 May 2019, the inaugural flight MI876, from Singapore to Busan, departed Changi International Airport at 2337hrs (SIN time) and arrived at Gimhae International Airport at 0707hrs (South Korea time) the following day.
“The launch of Busan flights marks yet another milestone for SilkAir, as it is the first South Korean city on our network,” SilkAir CEO Foo Chai Woo said at the launch event.
The flight was celebrated at the gatehold room at Changi Airport’s Terminal 2 where inaugural passengers were greeted with a bag of memorabilia, containing a flight certificate signed by Captain Sheldon Rasquinha, the Commander of Flight, as well as a passport holder and a thumb drive.
The return flight, MI875, from Busan to Singapore, departed Gimhae International Airport at 0831hrs (South Korea time) on 2 May 2019, and arrived at Changi International Airport at 1332hrs (SIN time). Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice President Commercial and SilkAir Chairman Mak Swee Wah was present at the gatehold room to celebrate the momentous occasion. Dignitaries like Singapore Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Mr Yip Wei Kiat and Busan Metropolitan Government Vice Mayor Mr Yoo Jae Soo were also there to grace the occasion. Passengers were presented with souvenirs, including handmade gifts by staff in Korea. A local band also gave a rousing performance.
Located on the southeastern tip of the Korean Peninsula, Busan is famous for its natural scenery and cultural attractions. The second-largest city in South Korea is also noted for its film and cultural festivals, with events held throughout the year, as well as its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) industry.
“For foodies, a trip to Busan would not be complete without visiting Jagalchi Market,” said Foo about South Korea’s largest seafood market. The CEO had paid a visit to the city prior to the route launch. “I had a chance to try the san-nakji (live octopus), and it was an interesting experience.”
This new route, which operates non-stop four times weekly between Singapore and Busan, ensures greater connectivity for travellers to South Korea, as well as offers Korean travellers easier access to Singapore and the many destinations on the combined SilkAir and Singapore Airlines network.
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