Despite decades of cutbacks on British Airways, one thing remained untouchable: a proper English breakfast on UK domestic flights.
If it seems odd that a full breakfast would be served to economy class passengers on a one hour flight between England and Scotland, but nothing but crisps or cookies on much longer routes, just think of it as tradition. The whole monarchy, birthright nobility, high tea sort of thing…
With cost-cutting Alex Cruz on the throne at British Airways, I suppose it was only a matter of time. Effective yesterday, British Airways eliminated complimentary food and drink in economy class on most flights under five hours. You can check out the new Marks & Spencer BOB menu here.
That means the end of a hot English breakfast for UK domestic flights into/out of Heathrow and Gatwick. I do tend to dwell on airline meals quite a bit on this blog, but I love English breakfasts, even mass-produced airline ones.
And admit it — doesn’t that look tasty?
As I wrote about in an earlier post, the idea that British Airways can cut its way to growth is a curious one and I do not think passengers will pay more for British Airways when EasyJet or Ryanair offer more reasonable prices and similar service levels. Sure, there are some advantages to flying out of Heathrow, but probably not enough to justify the fare difference BA arrogantly believes it can command vis-a-vis its low-cost competition. Indeed, for flights under 5hrs in economy, BA is now a low-cost carrier.
> Read More: British Airways’ Curious Strategy for Growth
Flying out of London City or Stansted? You have a reprieve till summer. Complimentary food — including the beloved English breakfast — will remain.
One last warning: people have reported that flights are not being properly catered under the new BOB scheme. That is not surprising in the first week, but bring your own food just in case.
Does this include flights that are blocked at 4:50 one way and 5:20-5:40 the other way (flights to Beirut, Tel Aviv, Cairo, etc.)
do u serve halaal meals? i will be flying 25 march to joburg and want to know if the breakfast cTering is halaal
BA only serves halaal meals on longer flights (more than 4hrs).