Just How Bad Is the Service of Air Koryo and the Plane Itself?
The recognized airline rating system around the globe, SKYTRAX World Airline Star Rating, has placed yet another one star for North Korea's Air Koryo.
According to its website, the Star Rating system "classifies airlines by the Quality of their front-line product and staff service standards." And it should be noted that SKYTRAX's ratings are considered a benchmark of airline standards.
But is Air Koryo really that bad? What does the general public have to say?
For starters, an article by The Independent on Tuesday states that reviews aren't "generally" bad.
Sure, some passengers have had some worries.
"I was fairly disappointed by the service however was amused when both pilots came around to say hello to the dignitaries, presumably leaving the aircraft on autopilot!"
"I think one of the engines may have been inoperative but otherwise the flight was fine."
Then again, a few have seemed to enjoy their flight.
"The 1 star classification is unjustified - based on my experience Air Koryo is somewhere between 2 and 3 stars overall"
"I guess the bad rating comes from the "old" Air Koryo operating ... their equipment and their attitude has changed strongly and it's another carrier now.
It doesn't seem so bad, does it? In fact, the customer rating from 41 reviews is 6/10, with 24 "recommended." Some passengers also post good food options on their Instagram account.
If that's the case, why such a low rating?
As reported by The Independent on Monday, Air Koryo has been penalized mainly for its 65-year old planes. Yes, they date back to the 60s. The airline hasn't acquired new units for more than 20 years, despite Kim Jong-un's efforts to boost Air Koryo's image. Well, these are only a few of the outdated methods.
The problem here, then, is that North Korea's airline doesn't compare much to its neighboring carriers, such as Asiana Airlines from South Korea and ANA All Nippon Airways from Japan. Newer planes could step up that one star for Air Koryo.
