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.

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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.

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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

IndiGo Partners with Marigold Aviation to Elevate Cadet Pilot Training

In a significant move for aviation in India, indigo, the country’s leading airline, has announced a new partnership with Marigold Aviation for its esteemed Cadet Pilot Program.

This collaboration marks IndiGo’s ninth alliance within the program, further emphasizing its dedication to developing the next generation of pilots and supporting its ambitious growth strategy.

About Marigold Aviation

Marigold Aviation is renowned for its top-tier commercial airline flight training facilities, backed by a team of aviation and flight training experts. Their wealth of expertise allows them to offer a uniquely tailored indigo cadet Pilot Program that upholds the highest standards of quality and safety.

The program guides aspiring pilots through essential stages, including preparation for the DGCA exams, acquiring the Commercial Pilot License Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (CPL-MEIR), and achieving Airbus A320 type rating.

Program Structure

The IndiGo-Marigold Aviation Cadet Pilot Program spans 21 months and is divided into three comprehensive phases:

Phase 1 (15 months):
- Ground School,
- DGCA & Commercial Pilot License Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (CPL-MEIR) Training, and
- Licensing at Marigold Aviation’s world-class facilities.
Phase 2 (4 months):
- Foreign License Conversion.
Phase 3 (2 months):
- Airbus A320 Type Rating.

To help aspiring pilots better understand the program, indigo airlines and Marigold Aviation will host a series of informational seminars in key cities across India, including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, in November. These roadshows will provide detailed insights into the program’s structure, financing options, and career opportunities available through IndiGo’s Cadet Pilot Program.

Commitment to Future Aviators

This partnership signifies indigo atr ongoing commitment to shaping the future of aviation in India by offering a clear and supportive pathway for the country’s next generation of pilots. By expanding its cadet pilot programme indigo, aims to ensure that aspiring aviators are well-prepared for successful careers in aviation, thus contributing to the growth of the industry as a whole.