Southwest to end cabin service earlier due to potential in-flight turbulence

Southwest passengers may notice a change on their flights from next week.

The airline confirmed to Scripps News that it will implement new cabin service procedures starting Dec. 4 to increase safety for flight attendants and passengers.

Under the updated guidelines, flight attendants will begin preparing the cabin for landing at an altitude of 18,000 feet. It previously started this procedure at 10,000 feet. The change is intended to reduce the risk of damage caused by turbulence during flight.

RELATED STORY | Expert gives tips on how to survive extremely turbulent flights

Southwest said the adjustment is “the result of the airline’s close collaboration with its Labor partners and a robust approach to safety management.”

The airline is not the first company to make this change. In July, Korean Air said it would end cabin service 40 minutes before landing to avoid the risk of damage during turbulence.

Before July, Korean Air stopped cabin service 20 minutes before landing.

The airline noted that turbulence has been a “persistent and growing problem” in recent years.

Although planes are built to withstand turbulence, it can still be an unpleasant experience for passengers. It can also be dangerous for flight attendants or passengers who are not strapped into their seats.

RELATED STORY | Travelers worried about flying due to several airline accidents