Asiana Airlines is set to retire its last Boeing 767-300 aircraft on March 29, marking the end of an era for this model in commercial aviation. According to Aeroroutes information and Asiana’s schedule submission to Cirium Diio, the aircraft will make its final journey on the Seoul Gimpo to Jeju route. This date coincides with the last day of the northern aviation winter season based on IATA slot seasons.
The Boeing 767-300 was first delivered to Japan Airlines in December 1986 as a stretched version of the original 767-200. Despite its introduction, only 104 units were produced before production ceased in 2000. The aircraft was operated by various airlines, including Air Algerie, Air China, All Nippon Airways, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and others.
The specific aircraft being retired by Asiana is registered as HL7528. It was delivered new to the airline in September 1999 and features GE CF6 engines. Unusually for a widebody aircraft, it has an all-economy configuration with seating for 290 passengers arranged in a 2-3-2 layout. The lack of personal inflight entertainment or WiFi adds to its retro feel.
On its anticipated final day of service, HL7528 will operate eight sectors between Seoul Gimpo and Jeju Island. This route is notably popular due to its convenience and scenic appeal. In total, Asiana’s Boeing 767-300 has served over 70 routes in the past two decades, with more than half of its flights dedicated to this busy trunk line.
While retirement plans are set for March 29, there remains a possibility that these could be postponed. However, should they proceed as scheduled, April will see Asiana replace this capacity with Airbus A321ceo and A330-300 models on the Gimpo-Jeju route.
