Korean Air will operate an Airbus A380 to London in time for the 2012 London Olympics, its chief executive has confirmed.

The aircraft – which was meant to be in operation in time for the Beijing Olympics – would start flying from Seoul to London in time for the Games, chairman and CEO Yang Ho Cho confirmed.

Speaking today at the launch of a sponsorship of a multi-media guide at the British Museum, Cho said: “The UK market is important for Korean Air as London [Heathrow] is one of the most important hubs for Europe.

“We ordered 10 [A380] planes and we wanted to launch in time for the Beijing Olympics.

“We will operate them in the bigger markets and London is a big market.

“They will be on the London route in time for the 2012 London Olympics.”

Cho also said Korean Air would welcome JAL becoming the ninth member of the Skyteam alliance of airlines.

“JAL is a very important airline in Asia and Skyteam is currently negotiating with JAL.

“Air France and Delta are seeking a partnership with JAL but the details are confidential.”

He added: “JAL is very interested in joining Skyteam.”

The beleaguered Japan national carrier has been thrown a $1bn lifeline by Delta on the condition that it leaves the Oneworld Alliance.

The sponsorship of the multi-media guides will last until 2014.

In celebration a Korean Air B747-400 aircraft (pictured) has been ‘wrapped’ with images of artworks from the British Museum.

This aircraft makes its inaugural flight from Incheon into London on today and will then be used on routes to Europe and the Americas.

Airbus A380 on show in Seoul and the next generation of Korean Air premium seats.