KOCA

KOCA regulations aim to ensure transparency and passenger protection regarding baggage and airfares.

• Mandatory Baggage Allowance: KOCA mandates that South Korean airlines must offer a carry-on baggage allowance at no additional cost. For checked baggage, policies vary by carrier, but KOCA requires that these policies be clearly communicated prior to ticket purchase.
• Ancillary Fee Transparency: All additional fees, such as those for extra baggage, preferred seating, or onboard meals, must be explicitly detailed at the time of booking. Airlines are prohibited from charging hidden fees.
• Weight and Dimension Limits: Airlines set their own weight and dimension limits for carry-on and checked baggage, provided they are reasonable and clearly communicated. KOCA monitors these to ensure rules are not excessively restrictive.
• Baggage Claims: In the event of lost, damaged, or delayed baggage, passengers have the right to file a claim with the airline. KOCA may intervene if the airline fails to comply with its legal obligations.

The transport of pets under KOCA guidelines is strictly regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, as well as cabin safety.

• Sanitary Requirements: Passengers transporting pets must present health certificates issued by licensed veterinarians, verifying that the animal is fit for travel and up-to-date on vaccinations. Quarantine information may be required depending on the destination and origin countries.
• Types of Transport: Small pets may, in some cases, be transported in the cabin, provided they are kept in approved transport carriers that fit under the seat in front of the passenger. Larger animals must generally be transported in the cargo hold, in appropriate, temperature-controlled containers.
• Restrictions: KOCA may impose restrictions on the transport of specific breeds considered dangerous or animals that pose a risk to public health or safety. The number of animals permitted per flight may also be limited.
• Documentation: It is essential to verify the specific requirements of each airline and the destination country, as these may include microchips, pet passports, and import/export permits.

KOCA has guidelines in place to ensure a more comfortable and safe travel experience for children, families, and infants.

• Complimentary Seating for Minors: South Korean airlines generally offer complimentary seating options for infants (under 2 years old) traveling on an adult's lap. For children requiring their own seat, discounted fares may be available. KOCA recommends that seating policies for minors be clearly defined.
• Strollers and Car Seats: Strollers and Child Safety Seats (SRS) may be transported free of charge, either as checked baggage or, in some cases, taken to the boarding gate. Policies vary by airline, but KOCA encourages flexibility in this regard.
• Special Assistance: Airlines are encouraged to offer assistance to families with young children, such as priority boarding and access to onboard bassinets on long-haul flights, upon prior request.

KOCA ensures that persons with disabilities and special needs have equal access to aviation.

• Wheelchairs: Airlines must provide assistance for boarding and deplaning passengers with wheelchairs. Personal wheelchairs may be transported free of charge as checked baggage.
• Priority Boarding: Passengers with special needs, including those with reduced mobility, are generally entitled to priority boarding.
• Medical Forms (MEDIF): For passengers requiring specific medical assistance during flight or who have medical conditions that could be affected by air travel, completion of the MEDIF (Medical Information Form) may be required. This form must be submitted to the airline in advance.
• Request Deadlines: KOCA and the airlines set specific deadlines for special assistance requests, including the submission of medical forms. Generally, these requests must be made at least 48 to 72 hours prior to the flight to ensure all arrangements are made properly. It is crucial to check the specific deadlines of each airline.

For the most detailed and up-to-date information on KOCA regulations, it is recommended to consult the following official sources:

• Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) - Civil Aviation Section: Although KOCA operates under MOLIT, general guidelines and official news regarding civil aviation are often published on the Ministry's main website. As KOCA is a subdivision, a direct link may be difficult to find. Searching within the MOLIT website for "Civil Aviation" or "항공교통" (Hang-gong Gyo-tong) is recommended.
• MOLIT Website: http://www.molit.go.kr/USR/policyTarget/m_33403/dtl.do (This link directs to the general air transport policy page, which may contain relevant information or links to specific civil aviation sections).

• International Air Transport Association (IATA) - South Korea Regulations: IATA is a valuable source for international and national regulations, including those for South Korea, though it is not a primary KOCA source.
• IATA - Timatic (Travel Information Manual): https://www.timatic.com/ (Access to this tool usually requires a subscription; it is used by airlines and travel agencies to verify visa requirements, vaccinations, and entry/exit regulations, including local baggage rules).

Please note that official KOCA-specific pages may be primarily in Korean, and English translations may be limited. Consulting via the MOLIT website and international resources like IATA may be the most practical way to access detailed information.