Flying from South Korea to Japan is not only quick and convenient, but with the rise of low-cost carriers like Air Busan, it’s also incredibly affordable. As international travel continues to rebound, more travelers are looking for simple and efficient options to reach Japan from Korea without breaking the bank. For my winter getaway to Hokkaido, I decided to take Air Busan flight BX188, a direct flight from Incheon International Airport (ICN) to New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Sapporo.
Booking and Airport Experience
I hadn’t flown with Air Busan before this trip, so I was curious to see how it would compare to other budget carriers I’ve used in the past. What I found was a smooth and reliable service that balanced comfort and efficiency. Even though Air Busan is a no-frills airline, I appreciated the thoughtful design of their newer aircraft, the Airbus A321 NEO II, and the friendly service that made the short international flight enjoyable. This review shares the full travel experience—from booking and check-in to onboard snacks, comfort features like in-seat charging, and how to smoothly reach downtown Sapporo after landing.
Booking my ticket through the Air Busan website was simple and fast. The user interface was intuitive, and the site allowed me to customize my trip by adding checked baggage, selecting a preferred seat, and reviewing onboard snack options. Since Air Busan operates under a low-cost model, these extra services come at an additional fee. For this particular trip, I selected a window seat and added a 15kg checked bag for a reasonable charge.
On the day of departure, I arrived at Incheon International Airport’s Terminal 1. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff at the Air Busan counter were helpful and efficient. Security and immigration moved quickly, and I found myself at the departure gate ahead of schedule. The gate was located in the satellite concourse, which required a short shuttle ride from the main terminal—a common setup for many international flights out of Incheon.
Cabin Comfort and Aircraft Overview
Air Busan BX188 operates with the Airbus A321 NEO II, a modern and fuel-efficient aircraft that features a 3-3 seating layout throughout the economy cabin. Upon entering, the interior felt fresh and well-maintained. The slimline seats were decently padded and comfortable enough for a short international flight of under three hours. I appreciated the headrest design, which provided just enough support for a nap, and found the seat pitch adequate for my height. The overhead bins offered sufficient storage space for standard-sized carry-ons, and cabin lighting created a bright yet calm ambiance during boarding.
In-Flight Amenities and Personal Space
Although Air Busan does not provide in-seat entertainment systems, I was pleased to find a charging outlet located underneath the seat in front of me. This feature allowed me to charge my phone and use my headphones to watch pre-downloaded content during the flight. It’s worth noting that there is no Wi-Fi or shared screens onboard, so passengers should come prepared with their own books, playlists, or offline videos. Tray tables were clean and functional, and cabin noise was minimal, contributing to a relatively peaceful flying environment.
Onboard Service and Snack Options
As expected with low-cost airlines, Air Busan does not offer complimentary meals or drinks. However, passengers can purchase light snacks and beverages during the flight. I opted for a cup of instant ramen, priced at 5,000 KRW (less than €4), which was served hot and made for a comforting mid-flight meal—especially fitting for the cold season. The menu also included soft drinks, tea, coffee, and packaged snacks. Service was fast and courteous; the cabin crew completed their rounds efficiently and followed up with a timely trash collection. Despite the limited menu, I found the service friendly and professional.
Midair Experience and Cabin Atmosphere
The flight itself was pleasant and mostly smooth, with only light turbulence during ascent. The temperature onboard was comfortable, and lighting was adjusted appropriately throughout the flight. As someone who enjoys window views, I appreciated the scenic contrast—from the coastal outline of Korea during takeoff to the snow-capped terrain welcoming us into Hokkaido. Noise levels remained low throughout the journey, contributing to a restful and distraction-free trip.
Arrival Process and Airport Facilities
We landed on schedule at New Chitose Airport, which is one of Japan’s best regional airports in terms of design and efficiency. Deplaning was swift, and thanks to advance completion of immigration forms via the Visit Japan Web system, the process at the border was nearly seamless. The baggage claim area was clean and well-managed, and my suitcase arrived within minutes. New Chitose is traveler-friendly, with clear English signage, souvenir shops, and access to restaurants and cafes just beyond customs.
Getting to Sapporo City Center
To reach downtown Sapporo, I boarded the JR Rapid Airport Express, which runs every 15 minutes and arrives at Sapporo Station in about 40 minutes. The train was clean, punctual, and easy to locate within the airport. Tickets were available at machines or staffed counters with English-language support. This option is not only faster than the airport bus but also more comfortable during winter when roads can be icy. For travelers with heavy luggage or staying in neighborhoods farther from central Sapporo, taxis or hotel shuttles are available as well.
Final Thoughts
Air Busan BX188 is a solid choice for travelers looking for an affordable, no-fuss way to fly between South Korea and Hokkaido. The addition of the A321 NEO II aircraft makes the journey more comfortable, especially with features like in-seat charging. While the lack of entertainment or complimentary meals might be a downside for some, the ability to buy snacks onboard and the flight’s punctuality more than made up for it.
Whether you’re planning a ski trip, sightseeing adventure, or culinary escape to Sapporo, this flight is a convenient and cost-effective way to begin your journey.
Flight Summary
- Airline/Flight: Air Busan BX188
- Route: Incheon (ICN Terminal 1) → Sapporo (CTS)
- Aircraft: Airbus A321 NEO II, 3-3 layout
- Flight Duration: Approx. 2h 55m
- Class: Economy
- Meal Service: Snacks available for purchase (ramen ~₩5,000)
- Charging: Power outlet available under front seat
- Entertainment: None (bring your own)
- Transport from CTS: JR Express Train to Sapporo (~40 min)
- Official Website: https://www.airbusan.com
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