Airlines

This European airline plans to scrap free food from its flights

Air France is set to trial the removal of free in-flight meals on two of its short-haul routes from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Lisbon and Helsinki, starting January 2025.

This shift toward a buy-on-board model follows a growing trend among European airlines, as carriers look to cut operational costs and explore alternative revenue streams. Under this trial, Air France economy passengers will still be offered a complimentary beverage and a small snack, but more substantial food options will be available for purchase onboard.

Qatar Airways bans these new Electronic Devices on plane

Business class passengers, however, will not be affected by this change and will continue to enjoy a complimentary meal service, complete with a range of hot and cold drinks as well as alcoholic beverages.

The move mirrors similar strategies adopted by other European airlines, such as British Airways and Lufthansa, which have both transitioned to buy-on-board catering in recent years. Air France’s parent company, the Air France-KLM Group, hopes that this trial will help determine the feasibility of the buy-on-board model for short and medium-haul flights, potentially leading to further rollouts in the future.

China’s C919 Successfully Flies Its First Journey on Sustainable Fuel

Traditionally, Air France has offered an edge over budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet by providing a free drink and snack or sandwich on most of its economy flights. However, the ongoing shift toward paid meal options reflects a broader industry trend.

Many airlines have gradually reduced their complimentary catering services in a bid to lower costs and, theoretically, pass those savings on to passengers through lower ticket prices.

Ryanair was one of the first airlines to eliminate free in-flight meals on short-haul routes, justifying the change as a way to remove “unnecessary frills” and provide more affordable fares. British Airways followed suit in 2017, scrapping free meals on short-haul flights and introducing a buy-on-board catering system.

Airlines

Air India to Enhance Long-Haul Travel with A350s as Competition Increases

A350s Poised to Redefine Air India’s Long-Haul Strategy as Competition Intensifies

Tata Group-owned Air India is gearing up to elevate its long-haul product as it prepares for the arrival of 34 new Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft, set to join its fleet starting in 2026.

This strategic move aims to solidify Air India’s position in the competitive international market, especially as it seeks to address criticisms regarding its aging fleet. The air india refurbishment A350s will feature distinct, tailor-made interiors designed to enhance the passenger experience.

Air India’s recent acquisition of six A350-900 aircraft, originally built for Russia’s Aeroflot, highlights the airline’s commitment to modernizing its fleet. Following sanctions on Russia, these planes were rerouted, offering a glimpse of the airline’s transformative journey.

Air India Begins $400M Revamp: Exciting New Interiors & Fresh Livery Coming Soon

Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Air India, noted, “The new A350s will start arriving from 2026. Those on pending delivery will have a different end product.” He added that deliveries will occur in phases over the next few years, ensuring a steady influx of these advanced aircraft.

The air india a350 interior business class will boast private suites adorned with luxurious duvets, pillows, and mattress covers. Passengers will be treated to elegant bone china featuring beautiful mandala designs, alongside glassware from a Slovakian manufacturer, free from lead and toxins.

Japan Airlines Rolls Out Free Domestic Flights to International Passengers

Unique salt and pepper shakers shaped like Indian tiffin boxes will provide a memorable touch, while the iconic Maharaja logo will be inlaid on some of the chinaware. In addition to these enhancements, air india a350 plans to introduce onboard air india wifi , with equipment preparations already completed. Regulatory approvals are expected soon, allowing for a swift rollout.

Currently, the revamped Air India experience is available only on routes to the UK, but plans are in place to extend this premium service to all international sectors by March 2025. a350 air india seat map By mid-2025, the airline aims to retrofit nearly 90% of its narrow-body legacy fleet, with widebody retrofitting set to begin mid-next year.