If you’re flying with Korean Air, you may quickly notice something is missing from the menu – a cup of instant noodles.
The airline will stop serving noodles to economy class passengers starting August 15. Turbulence, narrow aisles and an increased risk of passengers sitting close together could mean “burn injuries occur more frequently”, the report said.
However, business class and first class passengers will continue to receive this treatment.
This snack has long been a favorite among passengers and something the airline is well known for. Many praised it for being available free of charge upon request.
The airline said in a statement that the number of turbulence incidents on its flights had doubled since 2019.
In economy class, cups of noodles will be served at the same time, the statement added, saying “passengers are at greater risk of burns when they are crowded together”.
But the airline said snacks are served individually to those passengers in business and first class, reducing the chance of spillage in the event of turbulence.
Until now, the Korean airline has been offering free noodles to passengers on long-haul routes.
But now it will be replaced by sandwiches, corn dogs, pizza and “Hot Pockets” (crusty bread filled with cheese, meat and vegetables).
The move sparked discussion on social media. Some users expressed relief, while others noted that carriers were still offering other items that could cause burns.
“Isn’t the coffee and tea hot?” one commented.
However, another said it was a “very good decision” and said they had been “worried” they would get burned.
One user said that they hope instant noodles can be removed from the shelves “because of the taste.”
Korean Air said it will “continue to seek safe service methods while improving customer convenience and satisfaction.”
Earlier this year, Singapore Airlines said it would stop serving hot drinks and meals during turbulence as part of a “more cautious approach”.
A 73-year-old British passenger died and dozens were injured In May, flight SQ 321 encountered turbulence over Myanmar and diverted to Thailand.
Turbulence is one of the most unpredictable of all weather phenomena, and with climate change, severe turbulence becomes more likely, Recent research shows.
