AirFrance to trial paid meals on select flights in 2025
- Air France will begin a trial in January 2025, removing free meals on select economy flights.
- Passengers will still receive a complimentary beverage and a small snack, but all other meal options will be paid.
- The airline's decision reflects broader trends in the industry, with potential long-term implications for its catering policies.
Starting January 2025, Air France will trial a new 'buy on board' model on select economy flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Lisbon and Helsinki. This initiative will eliminate free inflight meals for passengers on these short and medium-haul routes, which are under three hours in duration. Instead, travelers will receive a complimentary beverage and a small snack, while all other meal options will require payment. This shift aligns with trends observed in the airline industry, where many carriers have reduced complimentary catering to cut operational costs. Airlines like Lufthansa and British Airways have already adopted similar models, prompting Air France to explore this option as a response to market developments. The airline aims to adapt its services to meet evolving customer expectations while remaining competitive. Despite these changes in economy class, Air France will maintain its full-service offerings for business class passengers, who will continue to enjoy a chef's signature cold platter and a selection of beverages, including wines and champagne. This distinction highlights the airline's commitment to providing a premium experience for its business clientele. Following the trial, Air France will evaluate the results to determine whether to implement the 'buy on board' scheme across more routes, including long-haul flights. The outcome of this trial could significantly impact the airline's catering policies and pricing strategies in the future.