Korean Air will no longer offer cup noodles to economy class passengers on long-haul flights. (Image courtesy of Nongshim)
SEJONG, Aug. 2 (Korea Bizwire) – Korean Air, South Korea’s flag carrier, has announced it will no longer offer cup noodles to economy class passengers on long-haul flights.
The airline cited an increase in turbulence, attributed to climate change, as the primary reason for this decision, aiming to prevent potential scalding accidents.
On August 1, Korean Air revealed plans to revamp its in-flight snack service for economy class passengers on long-distance routes starting August 15. The popular cup noodles will be replaced with alternatives such as sandwiches and corn dogs.
The decision comes in response to a significant surge in the frequency and intensity of turbulence events. According to Korean Air, the occurrence of turbulence has more than doubled in 2024 compared to 2019.
Climate change has led to warmer air, resulting in stronger updrafts and alterations in jet streams in the upper troposphere. These factors have contributed to more frequent encounters with turbulence for aircraft.
Aviation incidents related to turbulence have also become more common. In May, a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore encountered severe turbulence, forcing an emergency landing in Bangkok.
Korean Air’s in-flight meal (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
The incident resulted in one fatality and injuries to over 70 passengers. In the same month, a Qatar Airways flight experienced turbulence that left 12 passengers and crew members injured.
While Korean Air has not experienced any severe turbulence accidents, the airline has reported an increase in incidents where aircraft are significantly shaken. There has also been a rise in crew members suffering burns or fractures.
The airline stated that discontinuing the noodle service is a preventive measure to reduce the risk of scalding injuries where possible.
A Korean Air representative explained, “In economy class, where seating is more densely arranged and tray tables are smaller compared to higher classes, the risk of scalding extends not only to the passenger consuming the noodles but also to adjacent passengers.”
To replace cup noodles, Korean Air plans to offer a variety of alternative snacks. In addition to the existing sandwich option, the airline will introduce hot dogs, pizza, and hot pockets (pastries filled with savory ingredients).
Starting August 15, flights departing from Korea will feature hot dogs or pizza, while flights originating from international destinations will offer hot pockets.
Asiana Airlines has also said that it will no longer provide cup noodles in economy class but will maintain coffee and tea service as it is now.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
