The combined brand value of South Korea’s airline brands rose 38% year-on-year to reach USD 3.6 billion, according to the Airlines 50 2025 report by Brand Finance.
Korean Air’s brand value increased by 33% to USD 2.6 billion, moving up two spots to 17th place in the global ranking of airline brands. The growth was driven by a strong increase in operating profit and continued demand in the cargo sector, particularly from China’s booming e-commerce trade.
Asiana Airlines saw its brand value rise 51% to USD 1 billion, climbing five places to rank 33rd. Despite facing financial challenges—including foreign exchange losses and merger-related costs—its improved revenue performance contributed to the brand’s upward momentum.
“Both Korean Air and Asiana Airlines have enhanced their brand values in 2025, underscoring their ability to strategically navigate broader market fluctuations and enhance their global competitiveness,” said Alex Haigh, Managing Director Asia-Pacific at Brand Finance.
“As the two carriers progress toward integration, the merger would represent a pivotal moment, poised to create a stronger, more competitive, and globally recognised Korean airline brand in the coming years.”
Brand Finance also released its Airports 25 2025 sub-ranking, in which Incheon International Airport retained its status as the world’s second strongest airport brand for the fifth year running. Despite a 4% decline in brand value to USD 496 million, Incheon achieved a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 88.3 out of 100 and maintained its AAA rating. The airport’s global standing is attributed to its continued focus on international partnerships and service quality.
Malaysia Airlines re-entered the ranking at 45th, recording the fastest growth among all listed airlines.
Global Highlights
Most Valuable Airline Brands 2025
- Delta – $14.9 bn
- United Airlines – $12.3 bn
- American Airlines – $11.7 bn
- Emirates – $8.4 bn
- Southwest Airlines – $6.3 bn
- British Airways – $4.6 bn
- China Southern – $4.1 bn
- Qatar Airways – $3.9 bn
- Air Canada – $3.2 bn
- China Eastern – $3.2 bn
Strongest Airline Brands 2025
- Southwest Airlines – 91.1
- Jet2.com – 88.6
- IndiGo – 87.6
- ANA – 86.2
- Emirates – 86.0
- Air China – 85.8
- China Eastern – 85.6
- Air France – 85.3
- Japan Airlines – 85.0
- EasyJet – 84.6
Most Valuable Airport Brands 2025
- Heathrow Airport – $1.0 bn
- Changi Airport – $0.8 bn
- Paris Airport – $0.7 bn
- Incheon International Airport – $0.5 bn
- Frankfurt Airport – $0.4 bn
- Zurich Airport – $0.4 bn
- Schiphol – $0.4 bn
- Haneda International Airport – $0.4 bn
- Shanghai Airport – $0.4 bn
- Narita International Airport – $0.3 bn
Strongest Airport Brands 2025
- Changi Airport – 94.4
- Incheon International Airport – 88.3
- Beijing Capital International Airport – 84.0
- Zurich Airport – 83.0
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport – 82.8
- Haneda International Airport – 80.3
- Malaysia Airports – 80.3
- Schiphol – 78.8
- Narita International Airport – 78.7
- Heathrow Airport – 74.9
Source: Brand Finance Airlines 50 2025
Global HighlightsThe total brand value of the world’s top 50 airlines rose 29% year-on-year to USD 132.6 billion, reflecting a broader rebound in the aviation sector. Full-service carriers outperformed low-cost airlines, driven by rising demand for long-haul and premium leisure travel.
Delta retained its position as the world’s most valuable airline brand for a seventh consecutive year, with a 38% increase in brand value to USD 14.9 billion. Growth was supported by strong financial performance and continued investment in customer experience and sustainability.
Malaysia Airlines re-entered the ranking at 45th, recording the fastest growth among all listed airlines. Its brand value rose 209% to USD 607 million following a turnaround strategy focused on fleet renewal, operational efficiency, and international growth.
Southwest Airlines was named the world’s strongest airline brand, earning a BSI score of 91.1. The US carrier performed well across metrics including reputation, recommendation, and customer loyalty.
