Korean Air, the leading South Korean airline, has announced a significant change to its in-flight service for economy class passengers on long-haul flights.
As of August 15, the airline will no longer offer instant noodles on routes to America, Europe, Oceania, and the Middle East. This decision comes in response to a growing concern over passenger safety, particularly the risk of burns due to increased turbulence.
The airline’s decision to remove instant noodles from the economy class menu stems from a notable rise in turbulence-related incidents. Korean Air reported that such incidents have doubled this year compared to 2019, leading to a surge in minor injuries among passengers.
The combination of boiling water and cramped seating made the beloved snack a potential hazard, as flight attendants often had to carry multiple cups of noodles to passengers in close proximity.
In a statement, Korean Air emphasized that while instant noodles will no longer be available in economy class, they will still be offered to first and business class passengers, where the risks are minimized by the more spacious seating arrangements and individualized service.
To compensate for the absence of instant noodles, the airline will introduce a variety of new snack options. Passengers can now enjoy sandwiches, hot dogs, pizza, and ‘Hot Pockets’—crispy empanadas filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables.
These alternatives are designed to be convenient and satisfying, without the safety risks associated with handling hot liquids during turbulence.
The move has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some travelers expressing disappointment over the loss of a popular in-flight treat, while others welcome the change, relieved at the reduced risk of burns. Jin-woo Park, a frequent flyer, commented, “While I’ll miss the instant noodles, safety comes first. It’s good to see the airline taking proactive steps.”
The decision comes amidst a broader context of increasing turbulence in global air travel. According to the South Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the first quarter of 2024 saw a 79.8% increase in turbulence cases worldwide compared to the same period last year.
This significant rise underscores the importance of in-flight safety measures, making Korean Air’s decision a timely and responsible response to changing conditions.
