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BUY ON BOARD As we reported in our December issue (“Snack attack”), more airlines are starting to charge for onboard catering in economy class. Following the example of low-cost carriers, many full-service airlines have started unbundling fares to generate profit by charging for the “freedom to choose” where you want to sit, how much luggage you want to take and whether you want extra legroom.

United and American Airlines have been offering buy-on-board menus on shorter flights for years. Last month, BA scrapped its shorthaul food service in favour of paidfor Marks and Spencer sandwiches, snacks and sweets on Euro Traveller and UK domestic flights in and out of Heathrow and Gatwick, and London City and Stansted by this summer. It’s likely that more airlines will take similar steps in the near future.