If you fly Korean Air, you’ll quickly notice something missing from the menu: a cup of ramen.
Starting August 15, the airline will stop serving noodles to economy class passengers, citing increased risk of burns due to turbulence, narrow aisles and passengers sitting close to each other.
However, business and first class passengers will continue to enjoy this benefit.
This snack has long been a passenger favorite and is widely known by airlines, many of whom praise the fact that it is offered free of charge upon request.
The airline said in a statement that the number of times it has experienced turbulence on its flights has doubled since 2019.
In economy class, they serve multiple cups of ramen at once, adding, “When passengers are crowded together, the risk of burns is greater.”
However, the airline said that for business and first class passengers, snacks are provided to each passenger individually to reduce the possibility of snacks being spilled in the event of turbulence.
Until now, Korean airlines have been providing free ramen to passengers on long-haul routes.
But now these foods will be replaced by sandwiches, corn dogs, pizzas and “Hot Pockets,” which are crispy buns filled with cheese, meat and vegetables.
The move sparked discussion on social media, with some users expressing relief, while others noted that carriers were still offering other items that could cause burns.
“Aren’t coffee and tea hot?” one commented.
But others called it a “very good decision” and said they were always “nervous” about getting burned.
One user said he wanted instant ramen to be removed “because of the smell”.
Korean Air said, “We will continue to seek ways to provide safe service while increasing customer convenience and satisfaction.”
Earlier this year, Singapore Airlines said it would stop serving hot drinks and meals during turbulent air travel as part of a “more cautious approach”.
73-year-old British passenger killed, dozens injured In May, Flight SQ 321 encountered turbulent airspace over Myanmar and was diverted to Thailand.
Turbulence is one of the most unpredictable of all weather phenomena, and climate change is making severe turbulence more likely to occur. According to recent studies,.
