The South Korean equivalent of ‘Air Force One’ is getting an upgrade. Currently, the country’s presidential jet is a Boeing 747-400. However, come October 2021, this will be replaced by a 747-8 leased from flag carrier Korean Air.
A five-year contract
According to The Korea Herald, following three unsuccessful bids, Korean Air secured the contract as a solo bidder for the five-year contract. This will see Korean Air lease a Boeing 747-8 as the next presidential jet. The lease was signed on Friday and disclosed by South Korea’s defense ministry.
This five-year contract has a value of ₩300 billion ($242.3 million) and will see Korean Air provide the following services as per the agreement:
