British Airways could scrap free food on long-haul flights

Updated


British Airways could scrap free food on long-haul flights
British Airways could scrap free food on long-haul flights



British Airways could scrap free food on long-haul flights in the future.

The airline said that after a "rough start", the move has worked well on short haul flights - and could for be an option for long-haul flights for the future, although there are no firm plans at present, reports the Standard.

See also: BA passengers complain of 'no food or loo roll'

See also: Mouse grounds BA flight at Heathrow


Earlier this year, BA scrapped free food on European short-haul flights, and replaced it with buy-on-board options from Marks & Spencer.

While some customers felt that scrapping complementary food may make the service feel like a 'no-frills' budget service, Alex Cruz, the airline's chairman, said the move was now working well after a bumpy start.

According to the Telegraph, he told the Sunday Times: "It's going great. Customers say to us: 'Finally, I have good choices. No more chicken or beef'."

Asked if the service could be extended to long-haul economy flights, he said: "We might do it".

Currently, on BA's longest routes, customers receive two hot meals included in the flight price. On long-haul flights under eight and a half hours, economy ticket fliers receive one meal.

According to the Independent, BA said in a statement: "Two years ago, we introduced an additional option for pre-paid meals for those economy customers wanting a more varied menu. There are low-cost long-haul airlines around the world that offer buy-on-board catering and customers who value the option of seat-only fares.

"Like most companies, we don't stand still and we are very focused on what customers want. We have no plans currently for a buy-on-board economy product on long-haul, but if that is what interests customers of the future, we will listen."

Would you be happy to buy food on board long-haul BA flights for more keenly priced tickets, or would you rather receive the complimentary meals? Leave a comment below.

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