Instant Noodles Hit More Turbulence As Korean Air Takes Beloved Dish Off Flight Menu

Korean Air will remove instant noodles from economy class menus due to safety concerns. Business and first-class passengers will still receive noodles.

Instant noodles are now off the menu of Korean Air flights.

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Korean Air is set to bring about a big change to its in-flight menu, affecting economy class passengers on long routes. Starting August 15, the airline will no longer serve instant noodles, a beloved snack among travellers. The decision comes amid growing concerns about passenger safety. The move comes barely a month after South Korea's Buldak Ramen instant noodles were banned in Denmark.

Instant cup noodles, also called ramyeon in Korea, are prepared by pouring hot water and seasoning in a cup.  

According to the Korean Air, the risk of burns from hot noodles has increased due to more frequent turbulence, narrower aisles, and closer seating arrangements. "This decision is part of proactive safety measures in response to increased turbulence, aimed at preventing burn accidents," Korean Air was quoted by news agency Reuters on Thursday.

While business- and first-class passengers can still enjoy steaming cups of instant noodles, economy flyers will be offered alternative snacks like sandwiches, corn dogs, and pizza, reported BBC.

The move has sparked debate on social media, with some users applauding the decision and others questioning the logic. Some pointed out that other hot beverages and meals could also pose a burn risk.

Korean Air in a statement cited an increase in turbulence incidents since 2019, with economy class passengers facing a higher risk due to crowded seating arrangements. In contrast, business and first-class passengers receive their snacks individually, reducing the likelihood of spillage during turbulence.

The airline aims to balance safety with customer satisfaction, exploring new service methods to achieve this goal. This decision follows Singapore Airlines' move to suspend hot drinks and meals during turbulence, after a fatal incident in May, BBC reported.

As climate change increases the likelihood of severe turbulence, airlines are taking a more cautious approach to ensure passenger safety.