Air Koryo, the state-owned national airline of North Korea, is headquartered in Pyongyang. The airline was established during the early 1950s under a different name and has since gone through several transformations, reflecting the political and economic shifts within the country. Initially, it was tasked predominantly with providing domestic flights and later expanded to include international destinations, focusing primarily on countries that share diplomatic relationships with North Korea. Air Koryo has historically played a crucial role in connecting North Korea with the outside world despite the nation's isolated stance. The fleet of Air Koryo is comprised of aircraft that cater to both international and domestic routes. The selection of aircraft suits the operational needs of the airline, serving a limited number of destinations primarily in Asia. The fleet maintains a schedule that includes regular flights to specific international cities, as well as chartered services, especially during peak tourist seasons when there is an increased interest in visiting North Korea, either for cultural exchange or for international events hosted by the country. Domestically, the airline connects major cities within North Korea, providing essential air service in a country where travel options are limited. Air Koryo is known for its distinctive service style, which mirrors the country's traditional values and cultural ethos. In-flight services are marked by a unique presentation of North Korean culture, including the showcasing of North Korean music and propaganda art. The airline also plays a significant role in projecting a specific image of North Korea to the outside world, embodying the nation's ideologies and pride. Despite facing various international sanctions and criticisms relating to service standards over the years, Air Koryo strives to maintain its operational status while adhering closely to the regulatory frameworks set by North Korean aviation authorities.