There’s No ‘Free’ Lunch at 40,000 Feet, Either
Airlines are bringing back complimentary meals because you pay for them in other ways.
Back in 2010, Continental Airlines was the last carrier standing, offering passengers in cattle class a free snack while rivals, desperate to cut costs, had begun to charge for that cheeseburger. Then it too succumbed, and travelers began to incorporate the pre-gate sandwich purchase into their itinerary.
Seven years later, financially robust airlines are starting to sniff around the idea of returning “free” food to the masses. This spring, Delta Air Lines Inc. plans to serve a complimentary meal on longer, mostly trans-continental routes. Options will include fruit-and-cheese plates, a breakfast sandwich, and wraps.