.jpg)
Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate on high-value space services, including:
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite transport and payload hosting
Multi-orbit satellite deployment
Satellite life extension and in-orbit refueling
The partners will establish a joint working group to coordinate launch schedules and optimize orbital transport cost structures.
OTV: The last-mile delivery of space transport
An Orbital Transfer Vehicle is a propulsion-based solution that transports small satellites from large launch vehicles to their final target orbits. Functioning as the last-mile delivery for space, OTVs provide critical in-orbit services after deployment, including orbital correction, refueling and life extension.
As demand for small satellite constellations grows, OTV technology is essential for maximizing deployment efficiency. The capability to deploy multiple satellites into distinct orbits from a single launch vehicle is a key priority for the global "New Space" industry.
Strategic cooperation and technical integration
Korean Air will utilize its expertise in launch vehicle and satellite systems, including mission control and structural/control system design. Exotrail, a specialist in electric space propulsion and orbital solutions, will establish this partnership as a strategic bridgehead for its expansion into the Asian market.
Through this collaboration, Korean Air aims to address growing demand for ultra-small satellite constellations in the defense and commercial sectors.
“By combining Exotrail’s proven space heritage with Korean Air’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities, we aim to secure a competitive advantage in the New Space market,” said a Korean Air representative.
The OTV partnership follows the launch of Korean Air’s 35-ton reusable methane engine development program with Hyundai Rotem in 2025. These combined initiatives expand the company’s aerospace operations to include both launch vehicle manufacturing and specialized orbital transport services.
About Korean Air
Serving the world for more than 55 years, Korean Air is one of the world's top 20 airlines, carrying more than 25 million passengers in 2025. With its global hub at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the airline serves 116 cities in 39 countries on five continents with a modern fleet of 166 aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees.
Korean Air's outstanding performance and commitment to the highest level of safety and customer service has widely been recognized. The airline has been granted numerous awards including a 5-star airline rating from Skytrax as well as Airline of the Year from both Air Transport World and Airline Ratings. Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, and has grown into one of the largest transpacific airlines through its joint venture with Delta Air Lines.
For more information about Korean Air, please visit www.koreanair.com, Korea
