British Airways considers ditching free food in economy class

British Airways is considering ditching free food in economy class on short-haul flights in response to changing consumer habits – and even the free long-haul meal could be up for review. Passengers would instead have the option of paying for a better quality meal, the new BA CE, Alex Cruz, is considering. Charging for meals would remove one of the last on-board differences between BA and its budget rivals, but help the carrier compete on fares. BA has already added charges for checking in bags, brought in under the guise of discounts for hand-luggage-only fares. The other airlines owned by IAG – Vueling, Iberia and Aer Lingus – already charge for food, and passengers on budget carriers have become accustomed to buying food from shops in airport departure lounges prior to boarding. <br/>