Korean Air has announced changes to its in-flight meal service
schedule on medium and long-haul flights, citing an increase in
turbulence incidents. The airline will now conclude cabin services 40
minutes before landing, doubling the previous 20-minute window.
This adjustment comes as Korean Air reports a significant rise in
turbulence-related incidents. The airline stated that such occurrences
have doubled in the first part of 2024 compared to the same period in
2019.
"Turbulence is becoming more frequent, especially as the aircraft
descends, due to large temperature differences between altitudes,"
Korean Air explained in their announcement.
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By extending the service-free period, the airline aims to increase
the safety margin and reduce the risk of injuries. This longer window
allows more time for passengers to be seated and for crew to secure the
cabin before entering altitudes where turbulence is more likely,
especially when turbulence is observed to happen more frequently during
descent.
The decision aims to minimise the risk of passenger and crew injuries
during unexpected turbulence events. While aircraft are designed to
withstand turbulence, it can pose dangers to unbuckled passengers and
crew members moving about the cabin.
This move reflects a growing concern in the aviation industry about
the increasing frequency and severity of turbulence. In May, a Singapore Airlines flight experienced severe turbulence resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration describes turbulence as "air
movement that normally cannot be seen," often occurring without warning.
As airlines continue to prioritise passenger safety, travellers may
expect to see similar precautionary measures implemented by other
carriers in the future.