Korean Air is about to stop serving instant cup noodles to economy passengers on long-haul flights, due to concerns that the snack’s hot broth could scald people during bumpy journeys. The new rule will be enforced from 15 August.
In a statement reported by multiple news outlets, South Korea’s flag carrier explained that its decision was “part of proactive safety measures in response to increased turbulence, aimed at preventing burn accidents.”
Cup noodles have long-been popular on long-distance Korean Air flights, where they’re available for free at the plane’s self-serve bar. Fans of the gratis offering often post videos of their airborne noodle experiences on social media.
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To ensure its passengers stay sated, Korean Air said it would make other snacks such as pizza, sandwiches and filled pastries available for free, along with the usual tea and coffee. Business and first-class passengers will still be able to enjoy cup noodles, however. The airline said there was less risk of spills in planes’ more spacious premium areas.
Some social media users have criticised the airline’s decision to cut noodles, pointing out that hot beverages also had the potential to burn people.
This is not the first time Korean Air has tweaked its flight rules to better accommodate turbulence. On 1 June, it announced that cabin service aboard medium and long-haul flights would stop 40 minutes prior to landing – 20 minutes earlier than before.
A number of airlines have been enforcing stricter on-board safety measures after a series of turbulence-related aviation events resulted in serious injuries and the death of one passenger due to cardiac arrest earlier this year. Scientists have predicted that more severe turbulence will be one impact of climate change.
