Beginning on Dec. 4, a company spokesperson said, flight attendants will start preparing the cabin for landing at an altitude of 18,000 feet (5,486 meters) instead of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters). The change in procedure is designed to “reduce the risk of in-flight turbulence injuries” for crew members and passengers,

Additional changes are coming to Southwest Airlines this week as the airline says "nothing is more important" than the safety of customers and employees.

Southwest Airlines says it is ending cabin service earlier on flights, requiring passengers to do the usual pre-landing procedures such as ensuring their seatbelts are fastened and returning their

Fasten your seatbelts — earlier! Southwest Airlines announced that it will end cabin service — including providing snacks and beverages —- earlier on its flights to keep flyers and crew safe from potential turbulence injuries.

The airline issued a statement to USA Today explaining that the change aims to reduce the risk of in-flight turbulence, which can potentially cause injuries to both staff and travelers.

Beginning on Dec. 4, a company spokesperson said, flight attendants will begin preparing the cabin for landing at an altitude of 18,000 feet (5,486 meters) instead of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters).

Southwest Airlines news policy meant to combat in-flight turbulence injuries will take effect next week ahead of holiday travels. The airline will require flight crew members to prepare for landing earlier — at an altitude of 18,