Korean Air is upgrading the inflight meal containers it has used for the past two decades with new, sustainable, plant-based alternatives. Beginning in December 2025, the airline will gradually introduce entrĂ©e containers made from non-wood pulp derived from materials such as straw, sugarcane and bamboo. The initiative supports Korean Airâs efforts to reduce plastic use and contribute to global carbon-reduction goals. Following initial rollout on select routes this December, the airline plans to expand the new containers across its entire network by the end of 2026.
The new containers will be used for main entrées offered onboard, particularly Korean and Western meals in Economy Class.
Made from plant-based pulp that does not require cutting down trees, the containers offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic and paper products. They also provide strong heat resistance and durability, maintaining their shape during extended exposure to high temperatures. Korean Air expects the transition to reduce related carbon emissions by approximately 60%.
âThis transition to new inflight meal containers is an essential long-term investment in environmental protection and sustainable operations,â said a Korean Air representative. âWe remain committed to advancing our sustainability initiatives, aligning with global decarbonisation trends in aviation, and delivering greater value to our customers.â
Korean Air continues to expand its sustainability initiatives across its operations. In 2023, it replaced single-use plastic cutlery with bamboo alternatives and introduced unbleached bamboo-fibre napkins. The airline also carries out upcycling programs such as transforming retired cabin crew uniforms into medical pouches and repurposing end-of-cycle inflight blankets into reusable hot-water bag covers, reducing waste and extending the life of onboard materials.
