Food Desert in the Sky
I haven’t written a WHT article for a while, but my recent JFK to Las Vegas flight warranted a shout–out. With six hours in the air and a premium seat, I was awaiting my breakfast. After two hours, the flight attendant with her headed in my direction. Upon arrival they offered me a drink and a small package of biscuits. I asked if this is all we’re getting, and the answer was “yes“.
A flight from London to NY is six hours. As a passenger in a premium seat, not only did I receive dinner, I also had a continental breakfast. United and Delta offer meals on long domestic hauls, but not for every class seat. There are no laws that require airlines to serve food while in the air. If you are sitting on a runway for two hours it entitles you to a snack.
Air travel has changed. Many years ago, the company I worked for sent me on assignment to Las Vegas. I flew on a budget airline, Braniff. The route included three stops. Each time we departed, all the passengers got a meal. The flight took nine hours, but I arrived well fed.
I always take a healthy snack because I have diabetes. However, it would be reasonable to assume you were getting a meal and bring nothing. Some airlines offer food to purchase, but not on this flight.
Conclusion
There are many health conditions in which six hours with no food could exacerbate negative outcomes. With airfares rising, I think American Airlines should reconsider their meal policy. They should be embarrassed with their meager offerings. To this, I have to say, What the hell!
