Korean Air has implemented a ‘back to front’ zone boarding system for all economy class passengers on domestic and international routes, which will ensure that passengers seated at the back of the aircraft will be boarded first.

Each aircraft is subdivided into three to four zones depending on its size, and the zone number is printed on passengers’ boarding passes so that travellers can easily check their boarding order. While rear row passengers are to board first, passengers with infants or children, the elderly and those needing special assistance will be permitted to pre-board regardless of the zone number.

These procedures form part of the social distancing initiatives to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as boarding from back to front helps to minimise contact between passengers. To emphasise social distancing measures that are in place, there will also be floor markers at the gate floor for international flights so that passengers can keep their distance while waiting to board the flight.