Korean Air and the French space company Exotrail signed a memorandum

Seoul, April 7, 2026 – Korean Air and the French space company Exotrail signed a memorandum of understanding on April 2 in Seoul to jointly develop orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) solutions.

Through this partnership, Korean Air continues its diversification into the space sector and strengthens its position as a global player in aerospace and aeronautics. This collaboration also takes place in a symbolic context, as France and Korea celebrate the 140th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026.

Under this agreement, the two companies will collaborate on high-value-added space services, including:

• The transportation of satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) and hosting of payloads;
• The deployment of satellites across multiple orbits;
• The extension of satellite lifespans and in-orbit refueling.

Korean Air and Exotrail will establish a joint working group to coordinate launch schedules and optimize the cost structures of orbital transport.

OTV: Delivering the “last mile” in space transport

An orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) is a propulsion solution that carries small satellites from large-capacity launchers to their final target orbits. Acting as the “last mile” of space transport, OTVs provide critical in-orbit services after deployment, such as orbital correction, refueling, and lifespan extension for satellites.

With the growing demand for small satellite constellations, OTV technology has become essential for maximizing deployment efficiency. The ability to deploy multiple satellites into distinct orbits from a single launcher is a key priority for the global “New Space” industry.

Strategic Cooperation and Technical Integration

Korean Air will leverage its expertise in launch vehicles and satellite systems, including the design of mission control systems, structures, and command systems. Exotrail, a specialist in space electric propulsion and orbital solutions, will use this partnership as a strategic springboard for expansion into the Asian market.

Through this collaboration, Korean Air aims to meet the increasing demand for ultra-compact satellite constellations in the defense and commercial sectors.

A Korean Air representative states: “By combining Exotrail’s proven space heritage with Korean Air’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities, we aim to position ourselves advantageously in the New Space market.”

This OTV-focused partnership builds on the 35-ton methane reusable engine development program launched by Korean Air with Hyundai Rotem in 2025. These joint initiatives expand the company’s aerospace operations to include both launch vehicle manufacturing and specialized orbital transport services.

Beyond technical cooperation, this France-Korea partnership reflects a shared ambition to structure more flexible and competitive space mobility solutions, serving emerging commercial and institutional applications.

About Korean Air Aerospace
Korean Air’s Aerospace division is a global leader in aerospace technologies. Operating mainly from its technology center in Busan and its research and development center in Daejeon, the division seamlessly integrates over half a century of aeronautical expertise with advanced manufacturing capabilities.

The division specializes in three main areas: the design and manufacturing of complex aircraft structures; comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, including upgrades for military aircraft; and the development of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and space launch technologies. Committed to quality and innovation, Korean Air Aerospace continues to shape the future of aerospace mobility and defense systems.

Korean Air’s aerospace capabilities are strengthened by the airline’s 57-year history, having carried more than 25 million passengers in 2025. With its hub at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the company serves 116 cities in 39 countries across five continents, employing over 20,000 professionals. A founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, Korean Air operates a transpacific joint venture with Delta Air Lines, offering customers a seamless travel network and enhanced benefits.

Source: Korean Air