
British travellers are facing a sobering reality as major airlines quietly strip back complimentary services that were once standard on flights across the UK and Europe. What was traditionally included in your ticket price is increasingly becoming an extra cost, leaving passengers reaching deeper into their pockets.
The Disappearing Perks
Gone are the days when a short-haul flight guaranteed a complimentary beverage or snack. Airlines are implementing what industry insiders call "unbundling" - separating what was once included in your base fare and charging extra for each component.
British Airways, once known for its full service offering, now restricts complimentary drinks and snacks to specific fare types and routes. Their basic "Euro Traveller" fare on short-haul European flights no longer includes the free refreshments that business travellers and frequent flyers have come to expect.
easyJet and Ryanair have taken this approach even further, operating on a strictly buy-on-board basis for all food and beverages. The only complimentary item remaining? Tap water, upon request.
Why Airlines Are Cutting Back
Several factors are driving this industry-wide shift:
- Rising operational costs: Fuel prices and airport charges continue to climb
- Environmental concerns: Reducing weight and waste by eliminating unused services
- Competitive pressure: The need to offer lower base fares while maintaining profitability
- Changing passenger expectations: More travellers prioritise low fares over included amenities
What This Means for Travellers
The reduction in complimentary services means passengers need to be more strategic when booking and preparing for flights:
- Read the fine print: Understand exactly what your fare includes before booking
- Bring your own snacks: Most airlines allow passengers to bring their own food through security
- Stay hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security checks
- Consider premium fares: Sometimes the extra cost for included services represents better value
The Future of Flying
Industry analysts suggest this trend is likely to continue, with airlines finding new ways to separate services from base fares. However, there may be a silver lining for budget-conscious travellers who prefer to pay only for what they actually use.
As one aviation expert noted: "The era of expecting free alcohol on a one-hour flight was always unsustainable. Today's travellers are voting with their wallets, and they're choosing lower fares over included luxuries."
The question remains whether this represents better value for money or simply another way for airlines to increase their profit margins while appearing to offer competitive base prices.