GEORGEMIKEPOOLEYBANKS

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There is certainly an increase in tray-less service. Handling costs are reduced (as this option transfers labour cost from the caterer to the crew or third-party packers), and for hand-held snacks, primarily offered as a second service with a drink and napkin, it is a quick, convenient, and crew-friendly option.

Qantas was an early adopter removing the appetiser to serve instead a larger main course and dessert. And others have used this split service to add a choice for each course.

It does also allow airlines to use less traditional, asymmetric serviceware to add interest, and others are going for a smaller half-tray. Qatar, for example, has shown it is possible to deliver the same volume of food on a half-tray by re-designing the tray components.

While the tray may not yet be entirely a thing of the past, its role is certainly changing.