Will passengers have to buy meals when they f ly BA?
BRITISH Airways was facing a passenger backlash last night after it was reported that the airline was considering charging for meals on short-haul flights.
The move would be a major U-turn for a company that has distinguished itself from budget rivals by always providing free in-flight food.
Travellers are also increasingly resentful of add-on fees charged by cheaper airlines. Some are even threatening Ryanair with legal action over charges that bring in £315million a year, including £160 to change the name on a ticket.
BA is thought to be in talks to sell Waitrose sandwiches, which would allow it to cut its fares, making it look good value in price comparison tables.
At the same time, it would cash in from selling snacks, pastries, sandwiches and drinks, which have big profit margins.
But customer reaction on BA’s official Twitter feed was hostile. One said: ‘I hope this is a late April Fools’ Day joke. If not I fear BA is fast becoming one.’
Another told BA: ‘Seriously? Joining the race to the bottom? Stay “full service” and maintain a differentiator.’
A third tweeted: ‘So @britishairways has just given me another reason not to travel with them #cutsupexecutiveclubcard.’
One critic accused the carrier of going downmarket, adding: ‘BA to join ranks of airlines that provide bad service, at premium rates and remove “perks”.’
Complimentary food has been a feature of BA’s service since it was created in 1974. Its website says: ‘Whenever and wherever you are travelling we offer a complimentary snack or meal and bar service. On some of the longer flights in Europe you’ll be offered a three-course meal.’
The potential change in policy coincides with the arrival of chief executive Alex Cruz from the budget Spanish airline Vueling, which charges for a menu including hot drinks, muffins, chocolate bars, crisps, croissants, sandwiches, pasta salads and noodle pots.
Malcolm Ginsberg, of Business Travel News, said Waitrose would be a good match for BA, adding: ‘Waitrose, very middle class, would seem to be the ideal partner.’ BA told its Twitter critics: ‘We haven’t made any changes to our catering.’ A BA spokesman said: ‘As and when we have anything new to announce, we’ll let you know.’
Airlines are increasingly reliant on add-on services to boost income. However, many travellers resent the fact that airline fares are impossible to understand and compare.
A snapshot survey yesterday found advertised fares can mislead. BA seems to charge most for return flights to Barcelona in June at £111.02 a head, versus £84.98 for Ryanair and £79.49 for easyJet. But it offers free food, a bag checked into the hold and free seat choice.
As a result, BA is actually cheapest versus £122.47 with easyJet and £156.98 with Ryanair after their extra charges are taken into account.