South Korea’s capital is a vast cosmopolitan metropolis of modern skyscrapers and technology combined with a rich culture of ancient Buddhist temples and palaces. It’s a popular business and leisure destination for operators, so let’s take a look at Seoul’s two gateways, Incheon International Airport and Seoul Gimpo International Airport.

Seoul Gimpo International Airport

ICAO: RKSS
IATA: GMP
Coordinates: N37°33.42′ / E126°47.85′
Elevation: 59.0 feet MSL
Magnetic variation: 8° West
Opening hours: 2100Z – 1400Z (0600L – 2300L)
CIQ HOURS: 2130Z – 1330Z (0630L – 2230L)
Location: 15km from the center of Seoul

Operational Information

Registration, call-sign, aircraft type, flight schedule, crew and a passenger list with nationalities included are required to obtain landing permission
Slots are required
Passengers need to go through CIQ at the FBO terminal (getting through the terminal takes about 10-15 minutes)
Parking should be checked 10 days before operations
The maximum parking time is 10 days though this may vary depending on airport congestion
ATC is 24hrs, there are currently no restrictions but always check in advance of operations
Inflight catering is available
Ground transport is available

Incheon International Airport

ICAO: RKSI
IATA: ICN
Coordinates: N37°27.75′ / E126°26.35′
Elevation: 23.0 feet MSL
Magnetic variation: 8° West
Opening hours: 24/7
Location: 27km from Seoul

Operational Information

Registration, call-sign, aircraft type, flight schedule, crew and passenger list with nationality are required to obtain landing permission
Slots are required
Passengers need to go through CIQ at the terminal (getting through the terminal takes about 30-50 minutes)
Parking should be checked 7 days before operations (duration of parking depends on airport congestion)
ATC is 24hrs, there are currently no restrictions but always check in advance of operations
ATC is 24hrs, there are currently no restrictions but always check in advance of operations
Inflight catering is available
Ground transport is available

It’s more convenient for passengers to arrive and depart at RKSS where the FBO terminal is located and because it’s close to downtown. However, RKSS has a curfew as stated above. Thus, if the schedule is within curfew, we recommend operating to RKSS. Otherwise, RKSI should be used as it’s open 24hrs. UAS can advise you on the best gateway airport for your requirements.

Immigration

All crew (regardless of nationality) are allowed to stay up to 15 days without visas in South Korea.

For passengers, EU, Australia, USA, and Canada passport holders can stay visa-free for up to 90days. We will check specific non-EU countries on your behalf.

Accommodation

JW Marriott Seoul (60 mins from ICN, 30 mins from GMP, 10 mins from downtown)
Grand Hyatt Seoul (60 mins from ICN, 40 mins from GMP, 10 mins from downtown)
Grand Hyatt Incheon (10 mins from ICN, 60 mins from downtown)
Best Western Premier Incheon (10 mins from ICN, 60 mins from downtown)
Mayfield Hotel (30 mins from ICN, 10 mins from GMP, 30 mins from downtown)
Lotte City Hotel (30 mins from ICN, 5 mins from GMP, 30 mins from downtown)
Courtyard Seoul Botanic Park (40 mins from ICN, 15 mins from GMP, 20 mins from downtown)

Attractions

For support with your flight operations to Seoul, contact UAS