Korean Air removes instant noodles from economy menu due to turbulence

Turbulence concerns have prompted Korean Air to remove Shin Ramyun instant noodles from their economy-class menu starting August 15. This decision is part of the airline’s proactive safety measures to prevent burn accidents due to increased turbulence. The noodles were previously part of the self-serve in-flight snack service for economy passengers on long-haul flights, but will be replaced with options like sandwiches, corn dogs, and hot pockets.

While economy-class passengers will no longer have access to the instant noodles, business- and first-class passengers will still be served the noodles individually to reduce spill risks. The decision to stop offering hot food like instant noodles to economy passengers reflects the ongoing concerns surrounding the dangers of serving hot food and liquids on airplanes.

Many airlines have faced lawsuits from customers who suffered burns from spills during flights, leading to increased awareness and caution when serving hot food and beverages in-flight. Despite improvements in reducing accident rates, turbulence remains a factor that can make balancing and serving hot items more challenging, particularly with the potential rise in turbulence encounters linked to climate change, as noted by meteorologists and aviation analysts.