Due to Turbulence... Korean Air Ends In-Flight Service 20 Minutes Early

Cabin Service Ends Before Full Landing Preparation

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Korean Air will advance its in-flight cabin service by 20 minutes to prepare for the increasing trend of turbulence and ensure safe flight operations.

On the 1st, Korean Air announced that it will revise its cabin service procedures to prevent injuries to passengers and crew caused by turbulence.

First, starting July 1, the end time for cabin service on all medium- and long-haul routes will be moved up by up to 20 minutes. Previously, cabin service was provided even after the aircraft began its descent, until preparations for landing were fully underway. However, going forward, all cabin services will be completed at least 40 minutes before landing.

This measure aims to operate flights more safely amid the steady increase in turbulence occurrences. The number of turbulence incidents in 2024 has more than doubled compared to the first quarter of 2019. In particular, updrafts caused by large temperature differences between altitudes frequently occur when the aircraft lowers its altitude. This is why all cabin services will end before the aircraft begins its descent.

Meanwhile, Korean Air also urged passengers to comply with safety rules in case unexpected turbulence is encountered during the flight. When passing through areas where turbulence is expected, a seatbelt sign will illuminate along with an alert sound inside the cabin. At this time, all passengers must immediately take their seats and fasten their seatbelts following the crew’s instructions.

Sudden turbulence or unpredictable Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) also occurs frequently. Therefore, passengers are recommended to keep their seatbelts fastened at all times regardless of the seatbelt sign.

Additionally, passengers are asked to store carry-on luggage in the overhead bins or under the seat in front of them. Failure to store luggage in designated places may cause injuries during aircraft shaking due to unsecured items.

A Korean Air official stated, "We will continue to prioritize absolute flight safety as our top value and strive to secure customer trust in air travel safety as a global leading airline."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.