Air France is set to test a paid catering service, known as 'Buy on Board', starting January 2025 on select routes.
The initiative will initially affect Economy class on flights from Paris to Helsinki and Lisbon, where only water, tea, and coffee will remain complimentary.
Business class services will remain unchanged, ensuring premium passengers continue to enjoy a full meal service.
This move aligns Air France with a growing trend among airlines to offer paid catering options, responding to competitive pressures from low-cost carriers.
- The 'Buy on Board' model has been successfully implemented by several airlines, including Ryanair, Lufthansa, and British Airways, allowing them to lower ticket prices while providing optional paid services.
- Air France's decision reflects a broader shift in the airline industry towards more personalized and flexible service offerings, catering to changing consumer preferences and market demands.
- While some passengers may welcome the opportunity to choose their meals, others express concerns about potential declines in service quality and longer wait times for food.
