British Airways’ short-haul travellers will soon have to pay for food and drink on-board, after the airline announced it will scrap its complimentary catering options.
The airline will remove the free service for its economy passengers from January 11, 2017.
Business class passengers will continue to receive the complimentary service, with revamped options being introduced from Spring 2017.
This move to strip out further in-flight extras reflects the business models of low cost airlines such as Easyjet and Ryanair.
The new food will be provided by Marks and Spencer and include sandwiches priced at £3-£4.75, soft drinks from £1.50 and alcoholic drinks from £4.
Example prices for British Airways vs no-frills carriers:
Item | Airline and price | Airline and price | Airline and price | M&S on board |
Sandwich | Easyjet £4.50 | Ryanair £3.89 (€4.50) | Norwegian £4.50 | £3 for nine month aged farmhouse cheddar cheese ploughman’s or £4.75 for Aberdeen Angus beef and red onion chutney bloomer |
Hot sandwich | Easyjet £4.50 | Ryanair £4.76 (€5.50) | Norwegian £4.50 | £4.75 (Café bacon bun) |
Crisps | Easyjet £1.80 | Ryanair £2.16 (€2.50) | Norwegian £2.00 | £1 salt & vinegar and lightly salted hand cooked crisps |
Cup of coffee | Easyjet £2.30 | Ryanair £2.59 (€3) | Norwegian £2.50 | £2.30 |
Bottle of water (500ml) | Easyjet £1.80 | Ryanair £2.59 (€3) | Norwegian £2.00 | £1.80 |
Quarter bottle of wine | Easyjet £4.50 | Ryanair £5.19 (€6) | Norwegian £4.00 | £4.50 |
Spirits and mixer | Easyjet £5.60 | Ryanair £6.58 (€7.60) | Norwegian £6.50 | £6 |
Beer | Easyjet £4 | Ryanair £3.89 (€4.50) | Norwegian £4 | £4 |
Source: British Airways
British Airways said the collaboration with Marks and Spencer highlights “dissatisfaction” among travellers with its current short-haul economy catering.
Alex Cruz, British Airways' chairman and CEO, said: “I firmly believe what we are delivering breaks the mould and sets a new standard in short-haul catering. We will be providing a selection of premium brand, fresh food options and a menu that will be refreshed on a quarterly basis.
“We will also enable travellers to be able to use their Avios, the points they earn as an Executive Club member, to purchase meals. We know they’re always looking for ways to use their Avios and this is a great option for them.”
Avios members can use their flyer points to pay for the items via the BA app or with their Executive Club card.
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