Budget Airlines To North Korea
Despite the fact that North Korea is considered one of the most difficult places to get to in the world, travelers have a wide range of options for getting there. Seldom do major airlines frequent North Korea, but there are a few budget airlines that provide flights to the hermit nation from various parts of the world. Understanding what budget airlines operate in the region can help travelers make an informed decision when making their plans.
Air Koryo is well-known as the only budget airline that works with North Korea’s airports. This airline was founded in 1950 and is considered one of the oldest airlines in the world. Air Koryo is the official airline of North Korea. It primarily operates domestic flights to major airports throughout the country. The airline will also offer a charter service upon request by a business or individual.
More recently, a Chinese-based budget airline, Lucky Air, began operating flights between North Korea and China. This safety-certificated airline proudly advertises the fact that it is the largest international airline to operate in North Korea. It operates flights from Pyongyang to the Chinese cities of Shenyang and Dandong, providing travelers in the region with a cheaper and more convenient option for travel between China and North Korea.
There are also other budget airlines that provide flights to North Korea with connecting flights, though service tends to be infrequent. For instance, Shanxi Airlines serves the China-North Korea route with an additional stopover in the Russian city of Vladivostok. Similarly, North Korean carrier Sunan International Air operates flights from Pyongyang to Vladivostok.
In most cases, visitors to North Korea must obtain special permission to go there. It is important for travelers to get the correct permission, and book tickets via the correct channels in order to pass through immigration when arriving in the country. It is during this time that the strict regulations of the North Korean government become very apparent. Once a traveler has passed through the necessary regulations, however, it is possible to enjoy a unique cultural experience that few people have access to.
Destinations
North Korea is serviced by a variety of budget airlines and is connected with major airports throughout the region. Air Koryo is the official airline of North Korea, operating direct flights to and from the Korean capital, Pyongyang. Other budget airlines such as Shanxi Airlines, Lucky Air and Sunan International Air, offer connecting services between the North Korean capital and other destinations in Russia, Japan and China. These airlines provide travelers with viable options to get to North Korea and experience the hermit nation.
Tourists are often able to find airline tickets to Pyongyang for sale at low prices, making travel to North Korea more affordable. The flights typically follow rigid schedules, as most of the airlines servicing North Korea operate only during the warmer months of the year. These flights tend to be booked quickly and are subject to change at any time, so travelers must plan ahead and pay close attention when booking.
The availability of budget airline travel within North Korea has increased over the years, allowing more people the opportunity to experience the mysterious country. There are three major airports in the country, located in Pyongyang, Dandong and Wonsan, with smaller airports scattered throughout the country. Tourists are encouraged to book travel in advance and follow all regulations when traversing the area.
Regulations
The rules and regulations related to traveling to North Korea can be quite difficult to understand, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. North Korea is considered to be one of the most isolated countries in the world, and it is essential to research the relevant visas and documents required in order to travel freely in and out of the region. Those traveling to North Korea must obtain a special visa issued by the Korean Immigration Agency. Upon obtaining the visa, tourists must register with their respective embassy or consulate in order to obtain a valid passport.
There have been instances in which people have been detained for exceeding the allotted time for their travel in North Korea, so visitors should pay close attention to their booked flights. The government imposes strict regulations and surveillance in order to maintain order and discipline within the country. It is advised that travelers refrain from making comments regarding politics, religion, and other sensitive topics while visiting the country.
Due to the fact that the majority of flights to and from North Korea are serviced by budget airlines, all of the usual travel concerns need to be considered. When selecting an airline, travelers should seek out reviews online and check airline ratings and safety records prior to booking.
Travel Tips
Because North Korea is a unique and secretive country, it is important to take special precautions when traveling there. When booking airfare, travelers should ensure that they are using legitimate and reliable services, as there are often scams associated with flights to North Korea. They should also make sure to book flights well in advance to ensure availability and to avoid last-minute rush fees.
Those who are traveling to North Korea should also research the cultural customs and practices of this area. North Korea is known for having a very distinct culture, and travelers should familiarize themselves with the proper etiquette and behavior expected in order to avoid any misunderstandings.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to enroll in a travel protection plan when visiting North Korea. This type of plan covers travelers in the event of an emergency during their stay and can provide financial assistance for their repatriation to their home country. Those seeking to take advantage of aerial views of this country are reminded that the government has imposed restrictions on photography from the air and on the ground, so it is advised to avoid taking photos without express permission.
Safety
North Korea is well known for its human rights abuses and political oppression. As a result, tourists are strongly encouraged to consider the possible ramifications of their travel prior to visiting. It is important to understand that the political climate in the area can change at any time, so tourists must exercise caution and carefully monitor the news for any developments.
The safety of travelers to North Korea is typically a primary concern. People who visit North Korea are usually forbidden from traveling independently in the country and must adhere to a strict set of rules. Tourists must respect and obey by the laws of the North Korean government, and they should always heed the warnings of their tour guides. It is recommended that travelers trust their instincts and refrain from putting themselves in dangerous situations.
Most budget airlines travelling to North Korea are safe and secure. Air Koryo, the official North Korean Airline, is one of the few budget-airlines with safely-certified flights across its operational routes. Travelers should always ensure they go through the necessary safety protocols prior to boarding, and remain aware of any legal restrictions associated with their destination.
Getting There
Advance preparations are paramount when planning a trip to North Korea. Those who wish to visit the secretive country have various options for flights to and from the country. Major airlines are rarely involved in these connections, but budget airlines such as Air Koryo, Lucky Air, Shanxi Airline, and Sunan International Air, do service North Korean airports. Due to the infrequent flights, travelers must book tickets in advance, and secure permission to trip from the Korean Immigration Agency.
Tourists who wish to experience the unique culture of North Korea are urged to properly research the necessary paperwork and possible regulations involved in the process. Budget airlines tend to offer the lowest fares, but travelers should always ensure they check airline reviews and safety records prior to their booking.
North Korea is a mysterious country, and one should always practice caution when travelling to this region. Those looking to experience the unique culture of North Korea should take the necessary safety and legal steps prior to travelling, with an appropriate level of awareness of the potential implications that may be encountered.
Conclusion
Though the official airline of North Korea is Air Koryo, there are several budget airlines providing service to and from the hermit nation. These flights often offer the lowest fares and require passengers to arrive with all the necessary permits. Safety is a primary concern when travelling to North Korea, so it is important that travelers prepare for the journey with necessary paperwork and an appropriate level of awareness of the potential implications.
