Korean Air has taken its commitment to sustainability to new heights with the launch of its fourth collection of upcycled products. This time, the airline is offering exclusive name tags and golf ball markers crafted from the skin of a retired Boeing 777-200ER, registered as HL7721. This aircraft, which began its service in October 2003, has flown over 11,637 flights to 98 different destinations, covering a staggering 62,826,262 kilometers before its retirement in May 2020.
The name tags and golf ball markers are crafted from duralumin, a lightweight and durable alloy commonly used in the aviation industry, sourced from the aircraft’s fuselage. The unique colors of each item, ranging from sky blue to various shades of blue and red, are determined by the specific section of the fuselage they were sourced from. Each item is individually numbered, adding to their collectible value for aviation enthusiasts.
The sleek name tags feature a design inspired by the tail wing of an aircraft, symbolizing the spirit of air travel. Each tag is stamped with the Korean Air logo, the aircraft model, and its registration number. Customers can personalize their tags by adding their name and contact information, with availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
The golf ball markers come in two distinct designs. One displays the Korean Air logo along with the aircraft type and registration number, while the other features the traditional Taeguk symbol from the South Korean flag against a sky-blue backdrop. Both designs are equipped with magnets on the back for ease of use.
These exclusive items, made from the HL7721 aircraft, are now available for purchase through Korean Air’s e-skyshop, offering customers a unique opportunity to own a piece of aviation history.
Korean Air’s foray into upcycled products began in 2021 with the release of name tags crafted from a Boeing 777-200ER with registration number HL7530. The initial batch of 4,000 items sold out within a single day. Since then, the airline has continued its upcycling initiatives, introducing products made from the fuselage of a Boeing 747-400 in September 2021 and another Boeing 777-200ER in May 2023.
Beyond aircraft materials, Korean Air has also creatively repurposed other inflight items. In one project, the airline crafted upcycled cosmetic pouches from decommissioned cabin life vests. They also produced hot water bottle pouches made from end-of-cycle inflight blankets, which were donated to local communities, along with first aid pouches made from old pilot and cabin crew uniforms.
Korean Air’s upcycled products program exemplifies its commitment to sustainability. By transforming retired aircraft and inflight materials into functional, eco-friendly items, the airline offers customers the chance to own a unique piece of aviation heritage while contributing to environmental conservation.
