Korean Air said on the 25th it will switch the in-flight meal containers it has used for more than 20 years to plant-based materials.
The new in-flight meal container material, made from non-wood pulp, will be applied to the containers holding the main course for economy-class customers.
Korean Air plans to introduce the containers with the new material on some routes starting in Dec. this year and expand their use through the end of 2026.
The new material is considered eco-friendly because it can be produced without logging trees.
It also boasts strong durability with little deformation even when exposed to high temperatures for long periods, making it convenient to use.
Korean Air expects the switch to the new material containers to reduce carbon emissions from manufacturing in-flight meal containers by about 60%.
A Korean Air official said, "The overhaul of in-flight meal containers is an essential investment for long-term environmental conservation and sustainable management by corporations."