United Airlines recently made headlines as the first major American carrier to consider dropping free coach class meals on international flights.
But an announced trial of “buy-on-board” food only on flights from Dulles starting Oct. 1 fizzled out before it started, after the airline was hit by a barrage of letters and emails from upset customers.
In the same trial, however, United originally said they would drop domestic business class meals as well. That idea appears to have been revised. In a letter emailed to some customers, United says the jury is still out on “free” food.
We will proceed with the test of new, complimentary options for United Business customers on three-cabin aircraft used for domestic routes, which represents 16 daily flights. Customers on these flights will receive complimentary fresh sandwiches, salads, breakfast, snack boxes or snacks, depending on the length of flight and time of departure. They will also continue to enjoy complimentary beverages, including beer, wine and cocktails. We will evaluate the results and determine next steps by the end of the year.
Translation: business class passengers will get something to eat, but it’s the same stuff served in coach — only free. No word on if there is a limit.
I would assume passengers in business class would get served first too, though then presumably this adds to the risk of the airline running out of “buy-on-board” meals for customers, even with cash, in the back.
In addition, the sandwiches and salads are only served on flights longer than five hours. Which are really only transcontinental flights. Meaning that most business class passengers will be offered a choice of one of four snack boxes. Beef jerky, chips, salsa, trail mix and cookies, for example, or, Potato chips, salami, crackers, cheese spread, applesauce and cookies. Definitely not what business travelers need before an important meeting.
But hey, for the price of a business class ticket, or for your hard-earned miles cashed in for an upgrade, you will save the $6 to $9 that the airline charges coach passengers.
The changes do not take place until Oct. 1, which means that United’s decision could be overturned, or postponed. So hungry business class travelers of the world, unite, and send those cards, letters and emails to United. The hot meals you save may be your own.
Janice Hough is a California-based travel agent a travel blogger and a part-time comedy writer. A frequent flier herself, she’s been doing battle with airlines, hotels, and other travel companies for over three decades. Besides writing for Travelers United, Janice has a humor blog at Leftcoastsportsbabe.com (Warning, the political and sports humor therein does not represent the views of anyone but herself.)
