Korean Air announced it will stop serving instant cup noodles, a popular snack known as ramyeon, on its long-haul flights. The decision comes as a response to an increase in turbulence incidents.
The move is part of a broader set of safety measures aimed at preventing burn accidents caused by the boiling water needed to prepare the noodles. The airline emphasized the importance of passenger safety, particularly following a severe turbulence incident on a Singapore Airlines flight from London in May, which resulted in one death and multiple injuries.
Korean Air noted that incidents of turbulence have been on the rise, prompting the airline to conclude long- and medium-haul cabin services 20 minutes earlier than usual. This change will take effect from August 15, replacing the hot noodle cups with alternative snacks such as sandwiches, corn dogs, and hot pockets.
Korean Air is among 21 airlines participating in a turbulence real-time data exchange platform launched by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2020.