According to Yonhap News Agency, airlines are advised to terminate in-flight services 40 minutes prior to landing on medium- and long-distance routes and 15 minutes before on short-haul routes, adjusting the timing about 20 minutes earlier than was previously customary. Major airlines such as Korean Air Co. and Asiana Airlines Inc. have already implemented these changes. Low-cost carriers are also considering the recommendations. The guidelines further suggest reevaluating the risks associated with serving hot beverages and soups during flights, with Korean Air having already halted the service of instant noodles in economy class to avoid turbulence-related injuries.
The ministry's data indicates a significant prevalence of air turbulence incidents, with 111 related aviation accidents worldwide over the past three years, constituting 61.7% of all such events. South Korean airlines have experienced a marked increase in turbulence incidents this year, further underscoring the need for these updated safety protocols.