All major U.S. airlines, with the exception of Continental Airlines, stopped offering free meals in economy on domestic flights as one in a series of steps taken in order to be able to keep offering cheap airplane tickets and cheap vacation packages. Continental used to point to its offering free food as a competitive edge vs. other major airlines.
Soon this competitive edge will be over. Continental has announced that come fall it will sell meals to its economy passengers just like other major carriers. Instead of spending millions offering free food, it will raise millions selling food. According to Continental, this move will result in a $35 million positive shift in revenue.
At present, Continental flights under two hours usually offer nonalcoholic drinks and modest snacks for free. Flights lasting between two to three hours usually offer small sandwiches or muffins in the mornings. Free hot sandwiches or other hot meals are offered on trips lasting in excess of three hours, with cereal on morning flights.
Continental will continue to offer free meals in economy class on some international routes, domestic flights over six hours and for passengers in first and business class seats. Snacks, such as pretzels and nonalcoholic drinks, will be offered free to everyone.
Continental pointed out that they will be able to provide higher quality food once they start charging for meals.
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