No Ramyeon On Korean Air Economy

If you're taking a flight on Korean Air, you might soon notice something missing from your menu  – a cup of instant noodles. 

 

From August 15 onwards, the carrier will stop serving ramyeon to economy class passengers. They said the increased risk of turbulence, narrow aisles and passengers sitting closely together could mean "burn incidents occur frequently". Business and first class fliers, however, will continue to enjoy the treat. 

 

The snack has long been a passenger favorite and something the carrier are widely known for. Many praise the fact that it is available for free on request. 

 

In a statement, the carrier said that since 2019 the number of times turbulence had occurred on their flights had doubled. They added that in economy class, several cups of noodles are all served at once, saying that the "risk of burns is greater with passengers crowded together". But in business and first class the snacks are brought individually to these passengers, reducing the likelihood of spillage in the event of turbulence, the carrier said.

 

Anyway, this will now be replaced with sandwiches, corn dogs, pizza and "Hot Pockets" – crusty turnovers filled with cheese, meat and vegetables. 

 

The move sparked discussion on social media. Some users expressed relief, while others pointed out that the carrier was still serving other items that could cause burns. 

 

"Aren't coffee and tea hot?" said one comment. 

 

However, another called it a "very good decision", saying they had always been "nervous" that they would be scalded. 

 

One user said they had hoped the instant noodles would be removed "because of the smell". 

 

Korean Air said they will "continue to seek service methods that are safe while increasing customer convenience and satisfaction".

 

Earlier this year, Singapore Airlines said they would stop serving hot drinks and meals during turbulence as part of a "more cautious approach". 

 

On May 21, 2024, a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-312ER operating as Flight 321, flying a scheduled passenger flight from London Heathrow Airport to Singapore Changi Airport carrying 229 occupants on board, encountered severe turbulence over Myanmar and was diverted to Thailand. A 73-year-old British passenger died and 104 more were injured.

 

It is said turbulence is one of the most unpredictable of all weather phenomena, with severe turbulence becoming more likely with climate change.