Korean Air Suspends Popular Noodle Service Amid Safety Concerns

Korean Air will cease serving instant cup noodles, known as ramyeon, on long-haul flights due to increased turbulence incidents. This decision is part of the airline's safety measures to prevent burn accidents. Other snacks like sandwiches and hot pockets will replace the hot noodles starting August 15.

Korean Air has announced it will stop serving instant cup noodles, a beloved snack known as ramyeon, on its long-haul flights. The move comes as part of safety measures following increased incidents of turbulence, including a severe case on a Singapore Airlines flight in May that resulted in one death and numerous injuries.

'This decision is part of proactive safety measures in response to increased turbulence, aimed at preventing burn accidents,' said Korean Air in a statement. The cup noodles, a favorite among passengers and popular on social media, will be phased out starting August 15.

In an effort to mitigate risks, the airline will also end long- and medium-haul cabin services 20 minutes earlier, completing all services 40 minutes before landing. Replacement snacks include sandwiches, corn dogs, and hot pockets. Korean Air is among 21 airlines that have joined a turbulence real-time data exchange platform initiated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies.)