Can't say that I'm too surprised...and not something that I would totally miss. Airplane food has never been the best, so no loss here.

In any case,I've started to pack my own meals for trips. Water is purchased after we check through security. At least, I'll always have the foods that I like.

Posted By Annie Nielsen on August 20, 2008, 3:49 PM

Save $2 on water purchased after security. We just empty our bottle in the trash at security, put it on the belt through XRAY and refill on the other side. Never a problem.

Posted By Ed Rudd on August 21, 2008, 10:21 AM

I will gladly pay $9.00 for a sandwich/meal for the airlines. If it means saving some jobs of the airline industry, I will do my part to support them. Not a problem. I've been blessed to be able to travel.

Posted By Irene Rodd on August 21, 2008, 1:05 PM

Just another of the problems at United. Check out this story about United Pilots who want the CEO Glen Tilton fired: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/08/united_pilots.html
In an effort to bring public pressure, the United pilots have launched a Web site, www.GlennTilton.com, that highlights what they see as the failures of Tilton's management.

Posted By Pat Jorgensen on August 21, 2008, 1:36 PM

I actually look forward to meals on transatlantic flights so I will just choose another airline.

Posted By ellizabeth on August 21, 2008, 1:38 PM

We will endeavor to use other airlines. If forced, I'll bring my own meals, drinks and snacks. Actually, I already carry my own empty bottle and stash of munchies. Are the airlines trying to get us to stop traveling?

Posted By Amelia Adams on August 21, 2008, 2:00 PM

I'm a million miler and a long-time 1K/Global w/ UA. My suggestion is to let passengers decide, ahead of time:

At the time of ticketing, on-line, get passengers to order meal for extra $$ (2 price levels: for basic coach-level meal and what used to be business level meals) and choose the type of meal, ahead of time. For business people, always running at the last minute, we'll gladly pay for the extra service and hot meal, but NOT for the unbelievably awful snack-packs that they're starting to serve. The Snack-packs are an insult and way over-priced for what's in it.

That way, UA would know ahead of time what meals it needs and not.

Posted By Jas on August 21, 2008, 2:04 PM

Can find better salads at airport, and for less than $9.
Also have self heating MRE type from camping could use too.
I would just avoid those flights in principle.

Posted By mike on August 21, 2008, 2:06 PM

I will choose another airline.

Posted By Gary on August 21, 2008, 2:13 PM

I will travel to overseas destinations on foreign based airlines. When the CEO's and top management start taking pay cuts and less stock options to show their resolve to save the airlines, then I will consider using domestic based airlines. But as long as they penny pinch with not just the customers but with the pilots and the service personnel, I will take my airfare elsewhere.

Posted By Jackie on August 21, 2008, 2:15 PM

Henceforth will steer away from United.

Posted By Edna on August 21, 2008, 2:20 PM

There they go again. On domestic flights it wasn't too bad, considering a max of 5 hours.

We countered by packing two meals. Pate, olives & cheeses with cocktail rye bread for a main meal and ham & boiled egg with french bread for a second, if needed. Planning for 7 to 10 hours, may take a little more thought but as long as I can get wine and bubbly, I'll survive.

Alas and alack, oh for the good olde days when the food, wine and liquor were comped.

Posted By john on August 21, 2008, 2:20 PM

I won't pay them $9.00 for their food. I'll purchase something that is actually good after I've gone through security. I don't see how charging for their food is going to help the industry though. Most people are not going to buy it, the food stored on-board will be wasted, and then what will they need all of the stewards and stewardesses for? The airlines are going to price themselves right out of the industry.

Posted By Chris on August 21, 2008, 2:22 PM

I will choose another airline. On long international flights, most passengers need and want to eat. Some passengers will be willing to bear the burden of buying overpriced and often not-so-good airport food and hauling that food on board the aircraft, but many will not want to do that because of the inconvenience. I do not want to sit next to someone who walks on board with food they will not plan to eat until much later in the flight, but must find a place to stow it - increased risk of spills and smells. Food-for-sale food in flight has, in my limited experience with it, not been as good as the bulk prepared hot meals typically provided on international flights, so paying for a cold salad/sandwich which won't be as good as the standard international coach class meal doesn't appeal to me at all - more money for less product. Worse, if 100 people out of 200 on a flight choose to buy the airline's in flight meal product, the total labor to serve those meals will be higher than the labor to serve the full flight where the cost of the food is included in every ticket, because of the increased time it will take to handle the payments.
Untied is making a huge mistake with this one.
-Jay, Atlanta, GA, US and Barcelona, Spain
>75,000/miles every year.

Posted By Jay Libove on August 21, 2008, 2:31 PM

I'll just fly somebody else....

Posted By Ron Marquette on August 21, 2008, 2:34 PM

I'll direct my clients to other airlines. I pack my own meals and drink their water & juice, no problem.

Posted By Shirley on August 21, 2008, 2:42 PM

The food on Northwest/KLM last spring was excellent and made the long flights to Amsterdam and back much more enjoyable. It was nice to get that special bit of attention with great meals, and snacks and drinks were always available. Doesn't make me want to fly United.

Posted By Cindy Matthey on August 21, 2008, 2:43 PM

Let American Airlines purchase United Airlines and go the way of TWA, AirCal and Reno Air. What a wonderful favor for all.

Posted By buster brown on August 21, 2008, 2:46 PM

I prefer to fly foreign-based airlines because the customer service is better at ALL levels. If forced to fly United (I live in a United hub city), I will continue to pack my own food. It's tastier and healthier as well as cheaper!

Posted By Mary on August 21, 2008, 2:47 PM

I haven't checked but I bet that the flight they are starting it on has no competing airline. I bet that next they will try to charge for the use of the bathroom. I personally wouldn't give them 2 cents for the food they are selling. We have been wrapping frozen bagels in foil for years and they are perfect by the time we have them on the plane

Posted By Arthur Jacobs on August 21, 2008, 2:49 PM

I will definitely choose another airline. United, American, and Delta are among the worst airlines. With all these extra charges for baggages, meals, etc. these airlines are only hurting themselves. The CEO of United has to be the biggest imbecile yet. I could possibly see this sort of cutback on a domestic flight but on a transatlantic flight and not counting delays this could make for some very angry passengers. Are they hoping for an inflight riot between first class, business and coach? I agree with Jay from Atlanta. What about the smell, spills, inconvenience, etc. Hope they are the next airline to go out of business for this idioitc decision.

Posted By Sandra on August 21, 2008, 2:56 PM

More nickel and diming! I'll pack my own if I cannot get a ticket on an overseas airline. I am sure the cabin will smell wonderful (?) with the large variety of food that will be floating around. Can I bring my own stove?

Posted By Norris Bretsen on August 21, 2008, 2:56 PM

Another reason to always fly foreign based airlines. United's service has always been awful at best. I remember one overseas flight from Paris to DC and the attendants spent almost the entire flight resting in their curtained off seating area. You couldn't even get water.

Posted By Maureen on August 21, 2008, 3:07 PM

Another good reason not to fly the friendly skies
What’s next – pay toilets?
-

Posted By Paul on August 21, 2008, 3:08 PM

I would pack my own but then I am not interested in jsing United if I ever have other choices.

Posted By Jane Bunting on August 21, 2008, 3:10 PM

I bring my own snacks, sandwich, etc. now...why would I pay for the junk they try to pass off as food..They could have saved some big bucks by not showing all those fancy commercials during the olympics - did they actually think those would encourage people to fly their airline??...If anything they are pushing people off their flights..what's next sro???

Posted By Carol on August 21, 2008, 3:13 PM

Most of the people getting on airlines could stand to miss a meal. When I fly to Europe, it is normally overnight. Two glasses of wine and a sleeping pill and I'm good until moring arrival.

Posted By Stevo on August 21, 2008, 3:15 PM

Last winter flew AA Chicago to Hawaii non-stop, an hour longer than flight to Dublin! No free food and food available for purchase were sandwiches, candy bars (1 kind) and chips. We were advised that they usually run out, so ended up buying early and eating not-so-fresh sandwich later.

Meals (dinner AND breakfast on overnight flights) help break up a long trip. People bringing own meal(s), storing, (maybe bringing coolers aboard!),then eating at different times will make for a real mess in tight quarters.

Ahh. Remember the good old days when flying was fun.

Posted By Susan4 on August 21, 2008, 3:16 PM

I don't really mind paying- as I realize oil prices have gone through the roof, but what I don't understand is why meals purchased at the airport are so high anyway. Example.. meals purchased at McDonalds at O'Hare are way higher than the McDonald's downtown.... why??

Posted By Dan on August 21, 2008, 3:17 PM

Don't the airlines realize the more they cut back on their services (or charge for things that used to be free, or remain free on other airlines) the more they are perpetuating their lack of revenue because people will stop flying with them???

Posted By erika Sheehan on August 21, 2008, 3:18 PM

I will be flying NON-US-based carriers for overseas flights. Many of those airlines still understand and provide customer service -- including free meals, free water, and a smile rather than a snarl.

Posted By Ellen Moore on August 21, 2008, 3:19 PM

I've mixed feelings. First, if I pay for Business Class, $2500 or more, can you imagine getting hit for $9?

Second, I'll pack Limberger Cheese sandwiches in addition to my normal meal and just leave it when I deplane.

On the plus side at least if your still hungry you can get a second meal (or will they limit me to one purchased meal per segment)?

I can't wait for Supermarkets to charge me for using their shopping carts.

Posted By Mike on August 21, 2008, 3:19 PM

For this and other reasons, I try to avoid UA. The big problem with most of these airlines is that employees make too much for what they do. I wish they all used the SouthWest model.

Posted By Jim Tichenor on August 21, 2008, 3:22 PM

Thank God for British Airways.
I would not pay for a meal on board and I am a frequent traveller going to Europe at least once a year. The only problem would be keeping something fresh on a 10 hour trip. I guess bread and cheese would survive. Forget United Airlines.

Posted By Anne M on August 21, 2008, 3:22 PM

I'm not heart broken if they do not serve food...as long as they serve free wine and beer.American Airlines charges for overseas wine beer & booze.
No doubt I'll pack my own food.At least then I will be able to recognize what I'm eating.
Less food to load on the plane would save about 1000 pounds or so.
Thanks for that tip about free water.

Ed Squire

Posted By Edward C Squire on August 21, 2008, 3:23 PM

I will pack my own snacks or sandwiches as I see fit. Your cost now for snacks is a ridiculous price, $3.00 for pretzels, or chips, & $5.00 for a box lunch. That is ridiculous. Tickets are expensive enough as it is. Even with the economy as it is I will fly but now buy!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted By Nancy Boldt on August 21, 2008, 3:26 PM

The problem here is that the US airlines are going up against superior foreign airlines which means it is just another way to scare away customers. I want airlines to make money but all of the add on charges are too much!

Posted By Steve on August 21, 2008, 3:26 PM

United's going down the pan big time at this rate. They'll be back in ch.11 before the year's out I reckon. I use them quite a lot as they're one of the few airlines who fly direct between Chicago and Amsterdam, but I much prefer flying with Northwest/KLM, so this is just another reason to avoid using them. I just don't get how they think this is going to do them any favours in the long run. What they save in the cost of meals is surely going to be eaten up by the losses in ticket sales from people who refuse to fly them anymore because of stunts like this. Very short-sighted indeed. Are they going to do this on 16hour flights to Japan as well? And what about codeshare flights with airlines who do still offer meals, like Lufthansa?

Posted By Vic on August 21, 2008, 3:26 PM

I will change airlines.

Posted By diana walker on August 21, 2008, 3:28 PM

A sign og the times...I will pack my own!

Posted By James Felker on August 21, 2008, 3:28 PM

The airlines just seem to do everything they can to make travel more unpleasant. Since I travel mostly for pleasure, I'll choose airlines that try to minimize the unpleasantness, or perhaps I just won't go at all.

Posted By Stewart on August 21, 2008, 3:32 PM

Nope, won't do it. I'd rather pay $12 in the airport than give United $9 for a dried-out sandwich.

Oh, how low the US air carriers have sunk. If they'd let foreign airlines fly within the US, I'd laugh as all the American ones went out of business. I'm sick of snotty service, dirty airplanes and horrible delays...with the attitude of, don't like it? Tough.

Posted By Mike Frederick on August 21, 2008, 3:33 PM

I already pack my own for domestic flights.

BUT, as a public health professional, I'm very worried about that food after 10-12 hours outside of refrigeration!

Canned sardines anyone?

Posted By Catherine on August 21, 2008, 3:33 PM

Not a problem. I saw in Leeds, England (for the lowcost carriers that did not provide food) the shops in the waiting area had great food that you bought and took on board.

Posted By Estelle on August 21, 2008, 3:36 PM

ANSWER: No! NO! NO! I will look to other carriers for some semblance to TWA's meal service to Europe. Foreign carriers perhaps.

Within the States, we try to bring some absolutely wonderful sandwich that cannot be duplicated by any food provider within the airport itself.

I used to feel guilty whenever I flew a non-flag carrier--not anymore!!!

Posted By Pat Young on August 21, 2008, 3:37 PM

No, I'll choose another airline!

Posted By david speedie on August 21, 2008, 3:43 PM

I will not book a flight on their airline to europe.

If I wanted to go to Europe and there was no option for food - I think I'd change my plans - if I had no choice ( a meeting or something) I'd defintely bring my own food - and see if I can get it past security. screw $9 meals

Posted By Samantha on August 21, 2008, 3:44 PM

Not surprised, beats raising the price of the ticket. For $9, I will bring my own, plane food is never enough, I would have to spend $18, Ha! Ha!

Posted By Lynda-Lamb Arrufat on August 21, 2008, 3:47 PM

Will make it a point to avoid using United on any flight out of Dulles. Too bad, as it was a convenient transfer place for those of us coming from the West Coast!
Sad and disappointing that UA has sunk to this new level.

Posted By John Erreto on August 21, 2008, 3:50 PM

At times travel can be stressfull... what and who did I forget? Where's my ticket? ID or Passport? And now there yet another thing to think about. Food. At $9, I have to imagine what United will offer. Baggage fees and now meals. Are we expected to tip the waitress and driver too?

Posted By Irma on August 21, 2008, 3:50 PM

I will pack my own. That is going to far.

Posted By Cookie on August 21, 2008, 3:54 PM

This doesn't surprise me. I am not going to be nickeled and dimed for every service at the airlines whim. When we travel to Europe I'll do the research and fly with the airline that provides the best service at a reasonable price. I can fly Virgin Atlantic from Las Vegas to London Gatwick and not have to pay for a meal,likewise I can fly Condor again from Las Vegas to Frankfurt and not be charged for a meal. There are many more examples of other airlines not charging for meals. I would like to pass on one of my father's favorite sayings as it pertained to business, "Don't step over a dollar to pick up a dime." Which is what I think United is doing. HTC

Posted By Harold T. Carpenter on August 21, 2008, 3:55 PM

I won't fly UA anymore. I fly from Italy to the US at least one time a year or more. I have to catch early am flight with only an hour or so between connections. With all the stuff one has to carry on, I don't have time or space to buy food. It is crazy to fly people for hours and offer lousy food and then charge them for it. I will stick with foreign based airlines.

Posted By Deb on August 21, 2008, 3:58 PM

Just wanted to let "mike," who mentioned bringing the self-heating MRE-type meals on board, that those are not allowed to be used on commercial aircraft. They are considered a potential hazard on board the plane.

Posted By toni vitanza on August 21, 2008, 4:00 PM

No, if I'm going to pay $9 for a sandwich, I would rather pay $9 to decide what I would like and pay for something a bit better than a sandwich worth $2. Guess they won't be need the flight attendants much longer if I do everything myself.....too bad. Flying use to be a luxury feeling....

Posted By Shannon on August 21, 2008, 4:01 PM

Have to travel from West Coast with home-made sandwiches anyway, so will probably save the $9 for coffee and breakfast pastry upon arrival in Europe.

Posted By pavelle on August 21, 2008, 4:04 PM

The Airlines have been trying to cut out food and charge for luggage for years. This is their last best chance, by blaming fuel prices, and we may pay them. If they get away with this, we will be paying extra for anthing they can imagine.
We already pay for TSA and Airport operations. on every flight. Next we will pay a surcharge based on how many seats Air Marshalls use. It takes guts to charge a passenger for one peice of stowed luggage, after all, we are traveling from home.

Posted By Brian Russ on August 21, 2008, 4:06 PM

Pack my own.......

Posted By B.Brock on August 21, 2008, 4:08 PM

I'm just curious. While passengers cramped into economy are paying $9.00 for a substandard snack, what is the annual salary (plus bonuses) of United's CEO???

Posted By monique on August 21, 2008, 4:09 PM

Pay $ 9.00 for an airline meal??? No way, I rather bring my own!!!

Posted By luisa gira on August 21, 2008, 4:11 PM

for sure i will pack my own!what a rip off...$9.00 for 2 slices of bread and a filling? get real..i will also do what i normally do..use a non-us company...

Posted By pinky on August 21, 2008, 4:12 PM

Unfortunately I'm not surprised at UA's decision. After paying much more for the ticket than I remember paying, for a recent flight to the same place I previously flew; AND being charged $15 to check a bag that I was then required to take to the TSA folks myself, I was completely taken aback by the "$1 for coffee, $2 for soda or juice, and $7 for beer wine or liquor" being charged on the plane after takeoff. I'm sorry; but with the skyrocketing prices of tickets and additional charges for checking luggage, I'm not about to pay $9 for a sandwich. As another poster noted, self heating MRE's are readily available considerably cheaper. As a side note, Subway Sandwich shops are selling "foot long" sandwiches for $5; and I KNOW they are making a profit. What is UA going to provide that's worth $9?

Posted By Robert on August 21, 2008, 4:14 PM

Bye-Bye Friendly skies!! I'll take my business elsewhere. I also live in a united hub. I'll just have to work a little harder to find the flights.

Posted By Carolyn on August 21, 2008, 4:17 PM

Sad situation all the way around so we will fly with foreign airlines who always have better service, food, and drinks. If United is successful at this all U.S. carriers will soon charge for food. Next you will be charged for using the toilet and also for the toilet paper (likely rationed) Think of the smells and messes on board these planes - horrible solution to high fuel prices. Sadly when NWA is gobbled up by Delta can expect the same horrible service and charges for everything on Delta and NWA flights. Now the NWA flights to Amsterdam are reasonably good - wait till next year!

Posted By TOM on August 21, 2008, 4:20 PM

What is with the United State carriers? The foreign carriers really know what customer service means.
Another gripe: I happened to click on to a traveler's information site only to learn that Continental Airlines is suspending flights to Europe beginning October 1. I had not been advised by CAL, and only when I phoned did I learn of the cancellation, and there were no protected flights for us. We are a party of 4 who are being rerouted to Rome, with different airlines into Athens. And, there is NOTHING they can do about it. The attitude was take it or leave it. You know what? This will be our last foreign trip. I will fly Southwest here in the States.

Posted By JohnD on August 21, 2008, 4:20 PM

I will try to open an inexpensive food emporium at every airport, serving salads and bottles of cheap wine.

Posted By jerry on August 21, 2008, 4:23 PM

Hey, I'm retired. If I'm concerned about meals I'll cruise over to Europe!

Posted By Gary on August 21, 2008, 4:23 PM

I would definitely pack my own meal. $9 is a bit much for a sandwich that I'm sure isn't gourmet. Will they start charging $6.50 for a glass of water? European flights are much longer so I don't think it's right to force this upon passengers. I mean you can make it across the country with a packet of crackers, but on a flight that's twice as long I don't think it's right. Unless other airlines flow suit, it just makes me want to fly on another airline.

Posted By Coleen on August 21, 2008, 4:30 PM

Imagining that United will recant and reverse this policy is like imagining we'll get back to $1 gas. Others will follow, no doubt, but meanwhile we can keep flying on whatever airlines have not opted in. But eventually, one by one, they all will adopt a similar contempt for the consumer unless some of them see from the reaction against United that there is competitive advantage in staying the course.

Posted By Brian on August 21, 2008, 4:38 PM

I'm sure it won't be too long before other airlines copy this penny-pinching. It will be a pain not to be able to have food that is heated for that long a flight but I'll bring our own rather than reward this practice. For many years I had to travel from DC to Philly by Amtrak, at least the stations had excellent food that you could take onto the train with you for dinner (like crab cakes from DC, cheesesteaks from Philly).
it's going to be quite funny when oil prices drop and the airlines are stuck with lots of empty planes and have to apologize for the lousy service they've been giving us. Wonder which will go first, bag charges, food charges or pillow/blanket charges?

Posted By atp2007 on August 21, 2008, 4:52 PM

Hardly surprising. Wasn't this the airline that started charging passengers $25 to have a piece of luggage?

I was told years before 911 by a security agent that she never travels on domestic airlines for international travel because they are targeted by terrorists. Well, they also give better service.

American airlines treat passengers like cattle and try to suck every last cent they can out of them.

I once flew an American airline to Europe (only because I was redeeming frequent flyer miles) and the food was lousy and they don't give free alcohol any more.

All the European airlines give decent (for airline food) meals and all the alcohol you want. All of them treated the passengers well, but the best to me has been British Airlines.

Posted By Mary on August 21, 2008, 4:52 PM

Just another reason to avoid American based airlines. In order not to condone their behavior (and all of the other US airlines that will likely follow), I would consider paying more for a foreign airline. Having been on Air New Zealand, Qatar, and Qantas recently, I am happy to run to the foreign airlines, where you're not treated as an annoyance rather than a valued customer. The nickel and dime stuff has got to stop! Ciao, United!

Posted By Sharon L Stern on August 21, 2008, 4:52 PM

To heck with that. I'll pack my own, just like I do now for domestic flights! It's a PIA to try to do it on the return trip, though. Much more difficult. I think all other airline executives should attend the Southwest school of running an airline, since they seem to be the only profitable ones and don't charge for bags or anything yet!

Posted By Cathi Culver on August 21, 2008, 4:56 PM

I already carry my own empty bottle, which I fill at the tap in the toilet, after the security check.
I guess bringing your own food and an empty bottle will be forbidden in a few months: security must not hamper business or must it ? If security checks allow picknicks it will be a loss for the sandwich bars in the boarding area and for the airlines. Security IS business.

Posted By nic on August 21, 2008, 5:03 PM

I'll pack a nice deli sandwich costing me maybe $2.50 at the grocery store and sip tap water.

Posted By M Raulston on August 21, 2008, 5:11 PM

NO I WON'T PACK MY OWN I JUST WONT FLY UNITED

The Foreign airlines are much better anyhow
And that's what I will fly from now on!!!

Posted By Hal Gerhardt on August 21, 2008, 5:14 PM

RIDICULOUS TO EXPECT CUSTOMERS TO PAY FOR FOOD OVERSEAS FLIGHTS. ITS USUALLY ND 8-12 FLIGHT. THE SANDWICHES THEY SELL ARE NOT WORTH THE MONEY THEY CHARGE. GUESS I WILL NOT BE FLYING UNITED AGAIN. WE DO 2-3 EUROPEAN FLIGHTS A YEAR.

S.HEINZERLING

Posted By senga heinzerling on August 21, 2008, 5:16 PM

I'm a UA frequent flyer and I truly don't appreciate this cut back in service. I'm a diabetic who needs to eat at regular times and a certain amount of food. I frequently fly to Brazil from Chicago (I know it's starting with Washington but Chicago is a hub city, won't be long before they do this here as well) - this is a 19 hour (or MORE) trip when all is said and done! Do they seriously expect that I should be able to bring along enough food for a 12+ hour leg into Rio or Salvador?? Then there's all the waiting in airports - here and in Rio. Even for short flights both Tam and Gol serve a snack AND a meal. Brazil is pretty poor and this serves to show how very greedy American companies really are. I will be researching other options to Brazil.

Posted By Dale on August 21, 2008, 5:18 PM

Boy, when there is a problem, everyone takes advantage of it!!! Gas & Oil goes up because they will not let us drill in the U.S.(there is plenty of Oil and Gas in the U.S...we don't need foreign oil & gas) so therefore everything else goes up, but when the Oil & Gas goes down some, no one else goes down some and won't! We all just need to stop flying (I know some can't) but those of us that can need to or fly someone else, there are still some airlines that have not done what United is doing!
Maybe this would get their attention if the other Airlines was getting their business, especially if the CEO's of these airlines can't bring home there SuperSized checks that we supply to them!!! Let them charge for food, hopefully there will be very few passengers on their planes to worry about the service! United seems to charge for everything these days....Now they are going to charge for Women's Handbags, well, if they are going to do that then I think they should charge for Men's Billfolds or it will be discrimination!! If I can't carry my Purse with all of my ID and Credit Cards in it without a charge, then I don't think a Man should be able to do so either without a charge!!! Hopefully someone will bring a law suit against them for this stupit move...hint, hint!! I personally don't care what they charge for, I don't plan on flying UNITED!!! I have had it with there charges....Let them knock theirselves out of the sky, and hopefully the CEO's and VP's out of a paycheck!!! I GUESS NEXT, THEY WILL CHARGE YOU TO PEE!!!!!!!!!!!! WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BET?????????

Posted By CJ on August 21, 2008, 5:20 PM

IAD to LHR 6 - 8 times a year for me. That's the primary UA route I fly. (live in London; family in the DC area) The main meal has been ok in the past; the pre-landing snack was awful anyway so I'd already packed my purchased air-side bagel for some time now. I'll just have to pack 2 meals and let those around me drool when they're downing their $9 dry sandwich.

Just hope they let the occasional flyers know before hand because it is a long, long time to go hungry.

Posted By Ed F on August 21, 2008, 5:24 PM

I will not be flying United Airlines. With the cost of flying a $9.00 sandwich should be included.
Give a dog a bone.

Posted By Lisa Voss on August 21, 2008, 5:31 PM

UA is nickel and diming us with all these extra fees. I will NEVER fly United Airlines, and I will NEVER pay for one of their stall, chemical meals. I wish they would go out of business. My husband is a commercial pilot and we travel a lot, and it's gotten ridiculous. The service is 100 times worse than ever, and they're charging more; while they're trying to rip off the pilots and service personnel. The CEO's, the top dogs, need to get a better business model and take a pay cut and less stock options!! Going to Europe on vacation in Spring 2009, and I didn't even look at the US carriers, I'm going either Virgin Atlantic or BA.

Posted By Terri aka Soapbox Empress on August 21, 2008, 5:32 PM

I just won't fly United trans.ocean or domesticly.

Posted By Lenny on August 21, 2008, 5:46 PM

Subway in almost every airport, stay good (no mayo) for hours foot longs for those 12 hr flights.

Posted By mike on August 21, 2008, 5:50 PM

A couple of years ago my wife and I flew from Oaxaca to Mexico City on one of the Mexican Airlines. Not only was it a very spanking new plane but they gave out some packages of very tasty chocolate biscuits. On the two flights from Mexico City to dallas and des Moines United gave out nothing. When one of the passengers complained, the stewardess said that by not giving out the peanuts or pretzels they were saving a couple of million dollars a year. That she said, meant some 'jerk' in their headquarters got a nice bonus and all she got was to deal with unhappy passengers.

Posted By infreqFlyer on August 21, 2008, 5:51 PM

I am disgusted by this move, as well as United's $15 charge for checking the first bag. I will bring my own food and avoid United whenever possible.

Posted By Martha on August 21, 2008, 5:52 PM

I believe that I would make a sandwich or two, and take some peanuts. I think it would be more healthy if I fixed my own. I could control the amount of salt put on the food.

Posted By Emory C.Wilson on August 21, 2008, 5:59 PM

I'll find another airline that really wants my business. I won't fly on United again. I had the pleasure of flying Singapore Airlines last year and it was a wonderful flight --- even in coach!

Posted By Helene Pizzini on August 21, 2008, 6:00 PM

I thought it was a done deal. Much ado about nothing. I am waiting for the silly FDA to tell schools they are no longer in the business of feeding school children. Bring your own bloody lunch and can those airport savages that take our water and drink on. The price of water is more egregious than a $9.00 sandwich . . .unless of course it is peanut butter and jam.

Posted By Warren Pugh on August 21, 2008, 6:01 PM

Yes, I'd be glad to pack my Cheese Sandwich, thank you very much, United. But will you furnish napkins since it is quite messy?

Posted By Dee on August 21, 2008, 6:04 PM

Nobody has considered the loss of jobs at UAL once they start cutting out the meals. They will go to minimum crew (1 for every 50 passenger seats). Unfortunately, Airline travel has been reduced to basic transportation. Once airline fares catch up to the actual cost of flying, then maybe all of the amenities will return. The traveling public has been spoiled for a long time, remember how expensive filling your tank is. In response to Jim Tichenor's comment of 8/21, "use the SouthWest Model" since he says Airline employees make too much. He apparently hasn't studied the SW model, since most of the employees at SW make the most in the domestic industry (Pilots/Flight Attendants) and they have less of a workload than most airlines (No firstclass/ predepartures/ amenities). Remember Flight attendants are ONLY
there for your safety, otherwise, there would be a coke machine in the galley! I think the matter falls to Management incompetence. Foreign airlines, most subsidized by governments and a monopoly on their home market, I agree, still have more amenities and employee tools for the airline to operate with. I personally think UAL is making a mistake. Only time will tell...

dedicated employee of competing airline

Posted By liam cahill on August 21, 2008, 6:06 PM

I'll avoid United. I need to use up my last miles I have with them, and then other airlines it is. With all the restrictions on liquids and gels it's too much hassle to pack my own. Last time security said my Greek thick yogurt was a gel and I wasn't allowed to bring it.

Posted By Liaso on August 21, 2008, 6:16 PM

I will pack my own and bring my own water. It just seems like everything we use to get for free we now have to pay for and it isn't even all that great. Why is it that everything always trickles down to us. I won't be flying very much anymore. I'll start taking cruises and maybe even longer vacations so that I don't have to travel by plane so much.

Posted By luvchocolat00 on August 21, 2008, 6:17 PM

I am packing my own. Nine dollars for a sandwich is a bit much. They better be prepared for those passengers who didn't pack food. I can see a plane of hungry grouchy people. Not good.

Posted By Liz on August 21, 2008, 6:19 PM

Not only will I choose another airline, I will steer my clients to other airlines. (I own a travel agency.) Too bad I have a group flying on United in November -- I am sure these people will avoid United in the future after this welcoming experience. Still waiting for the pay toilets!

Posted By Barbie on August 21, 2008, 6:23 PM

Until the other join in, will try to fly on the other airlines. Now even trains include free meals if you book a sleeper.

Posted By Lee on August 21, 2008, 6:35 PM

Obviously, United has just written their death certificate. Subway can sell a 12" sandwich for $5.00. Perhaps they should consider a partnership. I stopped flying U.S. airlines to Europe after 9-11, when they started charging for alcohol. There are still good reasons to fly to foreign destinations. On a recent flight with Qantas, I said, "were eating again?" Air New Zealand provides excellent meals as does BA and Virgin Atlantic.

Posted By James Wallace on August 21, 2008, 6:46 PM

This is terrible advertisement for UAL. Hospitality pays off. How did United ever think up this bad treatment of their life-blood - their passengers?

Posted By Tony Lutz on August 21, 2008, 6:50 PM

They need to incorporate the price in the ticket. I enjoy the service on the foreign lines and will now use them and avoid United, Pampered is nice.

Posted By Glenn Fennell on August 21, 2008, 6:53 PM

I was waiting for this to happen. I am not impressed and with all the other surcharges (charges for each bag) they are tacking on, it's ridiculous!! It's like the final straw but yet as consumers we are at their mercy. I would rather pay a higher ticket price and still feel I'm getting some freebies - it's all mental. With all the strict security guidelines about what you can or can't bring on a plane - will they even let you bring your own meals? What about silverware? And I agree with the comments about people trying to stow the meals they do bring... what a mess it could be. Not to mention with a 8 - 10 hour flight average, having a hot meal is a nice way to break up the flight. A sandwich, homemade or purchased, just doesn't cut it, IMHO. I wonder if they will eliminate all the extra charges if/when gas goes down in price??? Ya, probably not.

Posted By Cindy W on August 21, 2008, 7:00 PM

United has always been at the bottom of my list for overseas travel and the food has never been that good. I have consistently refused to pay for airline food -- or drinks. I will continue to either pack my own or bring along something from the airport.

Posted By Carolyn Simon on August 21, 2008, 7:08 PM

What a turn-off to an airline that already has a poopy reputation.
It's a fundamental concern to be charged for food from a captive audience on any flight of four or more hours. It’s not as if we have choices for a food break by taking the nearest exit. Add the cost to the ticket for goodness sake, but don't further segregate the "haves" from "have-nots". It’s more an annoyance factor to pay outrageous prices for sub par fare for a single traveler, but think of the family of 4 or 6 who are forking out an additional $9 each, after they just paid $25 bucks to get each member's bag checked!
Hold on to those plastic forks, folks because the choice is ours. We decide whether to purchase a ticket from any of the airlines that are charging for all the extras, or we find an alternate source.
Not all airlines believe in this mercenary food and baggage trend.

Posted By Bren on August 21, 2008, 7:14 PM

Unlike other travellers who could perhaps afford over-priced food, I cannot. I am a student, and I'm struggeling to earn enough money as it is to get abroad for my university program. I don't have an extra $9 for a simple meal: either I will have to bring my own food or go hungry.

What I'm also concerned about is if the cut-backs will continue, and the trend will spread to other airlines, enough to deter people from travelling abroad. As globalization continues and interactions are increasing, we need people to travel to further our understanding of different cultures and people. If not, misunderstandings and unintended ignorance will continue, and thus (as it naturally does) perhaps violence.

Posted By Julie on August 21, 2008, 7:18 PM

I think this is outrageous.
Do they want people to just find another line, now that they have so many happy happy customers?>
Count me as looking for a better connection or taking my own snacks.
Dean M.

Posted By Dean Massingill on August 21, 2008, 7:25 PM

I can't remember the last time I flew United, but if I knew I had to buy my food I would just pack my own lunch. I really like NWA/KLM airlines and in my opinion the food on those flights is always good.

Posted By E.S. on August 21, 2008, 7:42 PM

well all I have to say is I NEVER leave the united states, so when I fly united, I always travel within the 50 states. I love United,I am a vip ask someone who works at the sky harbor airport, they love me when they see me. I am true to your airline. Sincerly, Diane Carolyn Campana

Posted By Diane carolyn campana on August 21, 2008, 7:51 PM

pack my own , as pretzels leaves one nauseus , would like a drink tho!!

Posted By tom hank on August 21, 2008, 7:52 PM

Airline food is bad enough without having to pay
for it. I would definitely bring my own!!!!!

Posted By Sue on August 21, 2008, 7:53 PM

Yee gads, what else are they going to charge for. Luggage, meals, blankets and pillows, uggh. And watch, when the fuel prices go back down, I bet we'll still be charged for all of these things. That's the sad thing really.

Posted By Karen Olivia on August 21, 2008, 8:00 PM

The flight attendants already think they are doing too much work. This will just make them even more unpleasant and rude. They should remember, they are still being paid for working on that flight. It is so nice to travel a foreign airlines where the attendants still smile and are helpful. I've learned to pack my own. I have been in more than one delay on the tarmac.

Posted By gloria on August 21, 2008, 8:04 PM

I will choose a different airline - this kind of penny pinching on the part of the airlines is getting ridiculous and will end up driving them out of business.

Posted By NST on August 21, 2008, 8:06 PM

I am not surprised, they have to make their money where they can. I usually enjoy the hot meals on the transatlantic flights but will now bring my own little picnic. I don't need their cold $9.00 sandwich.

Posted By Marion Paris on August 21, 2008, 8:11 PM

Is there no limit to greed? Airlines that take you to Europe or Southeast Asia have a captive audience. Sooner or later the passengers will become hungrier and hungrier until they cave in and pay the inflated price: $9 for a sandwich that even the airport restaurants sell for $6? $9 for a salad that Wendy's sells for 99 cents? If that's the airlines attitude, on top of the outrageous airport security treatment, I'll stay home.

Posted By Daniel J. Vandeberg on August 21, 2008, 8:26 PM

I’m not a big fan of airline food anyway, although as a vegetarian, the food is usually better and, as a special meal, it always comes first. I’ve not flown UA overseas as I prefer Continental, Virgin, or ANY of the other foreign airlines. Virgin, for one, also doesn’t charge for booze. And, they are not stingy about it and the attendants are quite pleasant.
Pay $9 for an in-flight meal? I think not.
I would either eat at the airport or eat at home first.
But, I would also NOT choose an airline that wasn’t offering the option. That’s just pitiful.
Besides, on an overseas flight, I don’t really want to eat at 8, 9, 10, or 11pm. It’s not a big deal. It’s just that when other seem to be able to do it so effortlessly, i.e., ALL the foreign airlines, it spells a death knell for UA.
Same thing for charging for bags. I’ve always been a carry-on guy. Trying to fit a bag for everyone on? We all know, that won’t work. It’s only going to create havoc and fights when someone’s bag has to be removed.

I know all the American airlines are in trouble, but please, maybe the CEO’s and VP’s could do without the million dollar salaries and severance pays.

Posted By Stevin on August 21, 2008, 8:29 PM

This does surprise me about United. They seem to be one of the few airlines that have attendants who continually travel the isles passing out their limited offerings. And overseas, it was usually two meals. Is nothing secred!

Posted By deanna on August 21, 2008, 8:32 PM

So they expect us to pay close to a $1000.- per ticket to fly to Amsterdam, but a warm meal and a small sandwich at the end of the flight is too expensive to serve. That's just ridiculous. I probably still fly with UA, since I have air miles I need to use, but it doesn't make me feel welcome and appreciated.

Posted By Kim Eich on August 21, 2008, 8:39 PM

If the other airlines don't follow along, it will be interesting to see how long United can continue with the food charge.
Unless their airfares are lower than the competition, I'll travel on the other airlines.

Posted By Leon Hojegian on August 21, 2008, 8:45 PM

I will fly another airline (European or Asian) or pack my own food.
Re: water in airport, KCI has NO water fountains past security, so bringing an empty bottle saves you nothing. Even the water faucets in the (few, small) restrooms are not useable for water, due to the shower-type faucet.

Posted By Lisa on August 21, 2008, 9:01 PM

Forget United!

Posted By Bev on August 21, 2008, 9:04 PM

I'll probably just fly another airline (until they all jump on this bandwagon!). If I'm forced to fly United, I'll bring my own food. Airline food was never very good anyway (remember the rubber chicken!)

Posted By Lynn on August 21, 2008, 9:04 PM

I WILL GO TO A DIFFERENT AIRLINE, THEY PACK US IN LIKE SARDINES AND CHARGE US EXTRA FOR EVERYTHING, I WOULD JUST AS SOON DRIVE FOR THE DOMESTIC TRAVEL AND FORGET GOING OVERSEAS IF I HAVE TO BE TREATED LIKE CATTLE. WHEN WE RETIRED WE THOUGHT WE COULD FINALLY ENJOY THE FRUITS OF OUR LABORS SO, WE CAN NOT HAVE ANY OF THE NICE THINGS WE DREAMED ABOUT. WE WILL LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR SOMEONE WHO CARES ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO WANTED TO FLY BUT FOUND OUT IT'S ONLY MONEY THAT COUNTS NOT THE PASSENGERS ....................

Posted By F.J. ANGLE on August 21, 2008, 9:17 PM

Who cares what they do? My flying days are over. I will no longer put up with the 60 IQ little Hitlers "employed" by the TSA, the flight delays and the nickle/dime crap from the airlines.

Posted By Nick on August 21, 2008, 9:19 PM

Why in good god's name don't the airlines just raise the fares instead of creating the necessaities of buying this and buying that before boarding. So far the toilets are free, I think. At any rate, I will not fly United.

Posted By Stew Jensen on August 21, 2008, 9:23 PM

I will be flying round trip from Buenos Aires to Spain (via JFK) on another (AA) airline. I paid ONLY $1,638.00 for the economy class ticket. Isn't that enough?

If a person gets off a plane in the U.S. from a European flight and has a quick connection to a flight to the West Coast, it's possible that they could die of starvatin.

Bringing food on the plane at CDG might not be a good idea. Any food that you wanted to bring on the plane would probably be considered a security risk and be confiscated. After really disgusting experiences in February and July of this year at CDG, I will never fly out of that airport.

If there is a boycott of United, due to the food charges, perhaps the other airlines would get the message.

If mileage credit is an issue, one could take a United partner

Posted By Jerry on August 21, 2008, 9:31 PM

I don't believe I could get a lunch through security at any of the airports around here. Although I did see a Rabbi get food through recently, anyone else who had any kind of food had it confiscated. Even an elderly couple with a bag of carrots and some cheese slices had it taken from them. I don't know how carrots and cheese could be a security threat! With airlines charging for food, and only bringing on board what they believe they'll sell, some people are going to end up going hungry. I guess air travel is going to become similar to luxury liner travel at the turn of twentieth century. Those flying in coach will be like those in steerage back then. Bah!

Posted By Nancy Libecki on August 21, 2008, 10:07 PM

If United needs the money that badly, it should raise the goddamn fare by $9, or whatever it needs to cover the cost of meals, pillows, blankets, and baggage. Then it should fire the idiot marketing people who don't seem to understand that they've blown it with the traveling public.

Posted By George Lindamood on August 21, 2008, 10:26 PM

So what happens when someone brings a peanut butter & jelly sandwich and a bag of peanuts to eat and someone goes into shock? Will they monitor what is brought on board, and who has the liability when somewhere over the Atlantic a person goes into shock so United can save some money?

Posted By Judy J on August 21, 2008, 10:30 PM

$9 for airline food? No, no no. I'll buy my own. Do I see a partern here? Charges for checked luggage means less need for handlers; charges for food and drink means less need for flight attendance. I think the actual plan is less service means fewer employees, and big savings on wages.

Posted By Adrienne Benedicks on August 21, 2008, 10:58 PM

GOOD BYE TO UNITED!!! Last time I bought a cold sandwich on a plane...I had to trow it away...it was so stale and dry!!! Obviously...there is plenty of reason to avoid United...and then we can just watch them go into chapter 11!!! It is time to fire the OVERPAID IDIOT CEO!!!

Posted By R Morgan ManyFeathers on August 21, 2008, 11:07 PM

Neither. I will not fly United.

Posted By James neff on August 21, 2008, 11:15 PM

I wouldn't even consider buying a sandwich from them for $9. Once they start patting me down for contraband sandwiches - I would never fly them again! How ridiculous!!

Posted By Evelyn on August 21, 2008, 11:43 PM

I realize the cost of petroleum products are causing many hardships both on a personal and business level, but these cutback by the airlines are a bit much. I'd rather have my ticket increased by a few dollars without nickel and dime-ing me on every turn. Bad enough we're being charged for 'checked' baggage which many of us have to do when travelling ~ not all can just do with a carry on! Now we have pillows, blankets and food as extras. On an international flight, I think it's criminal to make passengers pay for food. I usually forego what they're serving and bring fruit or munchies of some sort but many people don't want to be bothered dragging more items on a plane. It's getting to the point where travel of any sort will be curtailed by many especially if it's family travel ~ much too expensive to continue to enjoy under these circumstances.

Posted By Marilyn on August 21, 2008, 11:45 PM

I paid for meals on my recent trips to and from New Orleans out of Los Angeles on Delta. They had already eliminated free meals and offered us a menu with options from $6 to $9. We were famished and bought one salad and one sandwich to share. We were pleasantly surprised at the freshness and tastiness of the food - a long way from the hideous "airplane food" that was almost always inedible. Since airport food is priced about the same, I would rather eat on the plane, when I need something to do to kill time, than pay for my meal in the airport prior to the flight.
If charging for meals keeps the cost down - great! Let each customer decide if he or she wants to pay that $9 instead of the airline increasing all flights by $9 to pay for the "free" meals.

Posted By Linda on August 22, 2008, 12:23 AM

I've never been a big fan of airline food to begin with, and have generally always packed something to eat. So, this won't be a problem for me. I'd never pay $9 for a stupid sandwich anyway. Besides, I don't fly United anyway. I understand they are having to cut costs any way they can due to the high costs of fuel, but this is really a bit ridiculous for international flights.

Posted By Debbie on August 22, 2008, 12:43 AM

I will fly another airline. They would have done better just dropping food altogether instead of insulting passengers who have already paid enough just to ride the plane. Why play favorites? Dumb. I am switching to non-US airlines for a while.

Posted By Deb Reed on August 22, 2008, 12:58 AM

I travel by foreign carriers. I feel no guilt nor obligation to buy "American." When the American carriers can duplicatethe service and the attitudes of the foreign carriers, then maybe I will return. The foreign carriers tolerate less noise and fooling around by many young passengers which appeals to me. To pay over a thousand dollars and be bombarded by loud music, rude behavior, inappropriate language and the like doesn't apeal to me

Posted By norma on August 22, 2008, 1:09 AM

Will. Not. Fly. Them. Ever. Again. Hello, Continental!

Posted By Bruce E Logan on August 22, 2008, 1:12 AM

United has always been contentious and I quit flying them years ago. In general, the people running the airlines need to quit abusing the source of their income, or they will become the loser. You cannot further disgrace and disrespect the men, women and families flying and expect them to love that airline, it just won't happen. With so many other viable options to budget more effectively, sticking it to the public is like committing suicide. Goodbye and good ridance, United Airlines!!!

Posted By Nancy on August 22, 2008, 2:22 AM

Agree with those who point out that everyone suffers from Greenspan's deregulation efforts and the airlines managers extreme avarice (which reflects nothing more than the typical American corporate culture in general). With the DHA's see through radar, extensive searches (physical and electronic), expensive baggage restrictions, crowded terminals, delayed flights, involuntary imprisonment for over 10 hours on runways, alleged deferred maintenance, no food, no water, cramped seats, angry passengers, serious under regulation, successful corporate efforts to lobby congress to restrict passenger rights, miniscule and too few bathrooms, too few staff and low paid at that, no pillows, no magazines, no blankets and intermingled armed disguised air guards - well it is more like going to prison than taking an enjoyable ride.

Except for one thing, in prison you don't pay to be there, on America's airlines, you do. Oh yes, don't forget your limburger cheese on your next flight to Europe.

Also what is this about BYOTP- or pay by the sheet?

Posted By cyberman on August 22, 2008, 3:38 AM

I bring my own snacks and goodies now for health reasons. I have not missed the stuff they have been trying to pass off as food now for a long time. I get what I want, it tastes better and I can serve my self and not have to wait until they get to my row. There are plenty of other oversea airlines that would love to have hubs in the US.

Posted By Natalina DeSimone on August 22, 2008, 7:37 AM

Traveling most overseas, I definitely will choose a foreign airline. Imagine flying 18 to 20 hours across the Pacific and 300 passengers bringing "authentic local meals " on board. Who can put up with the smell and mess ? If they cannot afford the meal service on overseas flights, stop flying those routes. Under proper management, they can money, overseas airlines do it.

Posted By Rudolf Swoboda on August 22, 2008, 8:53 AM

I flew NWA from Minneapolis to Honolulu in July (just as long of a flight as many flights to Europe). This flight spanned two mealtimes and they provided no free meals. I just packed a PB&J sandwich and snacks from home and, during my connection in Minneapolis, bought food for another meal. As a matter of principle, I wasn't going to pay for their food. The airport food wasn't THAT much cheaper, but at least I could pick what I liked. I saw that many other people on the flight brought their own food as well.

Posted By Cynthia on August 22, 2008, 9:26 AM

Airlines don't need anymore excuses. Customer service has been plummeting for years. As a wife of a former airline employee, I actually remember the days when airline personnel were actually nice to travelers. I'll pack my own food and bring my own cards and blanket thank you.

Posted By Jean Mollica on August 22, 2008, 9:31 AM

I simply will not fly United.

Posted By J House on August 22, 2008, 10:35 AM

This takes me back to the 60s and 70s with passenger tains where everything was cut to save dollars! I like the blog where business class passengers have to pay for meals in addition to paying 3 or 4 times for a flight! I guess the next "savings" will be for passengers to load their own luggage! Or how about charging for luggage pounds?? And maybe add in pounds per mile including passenger "weight?"

Posted By Ray M. on August 22, 2008, 11:10 AM

It partially the passengers' fault that this is happening as well as the airlines.

As long as Ma and Pa Kettle insist on the absolutely lowest airfare they can find on Expedia, Kayak, or Orbitz, saving $5 on a ticket the airlines are going to cut costs one way or the other. The airlines know that people will fly on their plane if the ticket is $10 cheaper than on the other guy.

I checked ticket prices and it is $308 RT to MCO from EWR on CO and $335 on UA the first week of December. This is what it was 2 years ago!

The major airlines could increase fares $10 in each direction to pay for the food/snacks but the public will chose the lowest fare over amenities any day.

Posted By Rich on August 22, 2008, 11:42 AM

Ha! That's only a measly six hours. Try a nine hour flt from ORD-HNL....NO
MEALS, and that was LAST YEAR (07)!! What they did offer was an overpriced
pre-packaged snack. It kept me from eating the seat cushion, but was no
substitute for a meal!

Posted By Nancy on August 22, 2008, 11:44 AM

Poor management....as if enough isn't made off selling the booze. I'll pack my own and pursue another airline with service!!!

Dottie

Posted By Dottie on August 22, 2008, 12:12 PM

I found united to have bad food,Bad service, uncomfortable seats. Unfriendly people and even rude cabin attendants. I gave up on them and the only domestic carriers I use now is American and Southwest. If American doesn't shape up they are next in line for pitching. For Europe flights I prefer SAS and Lufthansa

Posted By William Skaggs on August 22, 2008, 12:32 PM

Bye-Bye United Airline.
We will fly another Airline.

Posted By M. Nguyen on August 22, 2008, 1:32 PM

While I agree with most of the negative comments posted about UA I would like to remind those who thought they could eventually get rid of flight attendants due to the decreased workload: The main reason for flight attendants are for your safety.
Without their guidance any problems encountered would lead to chaos.

Posted By Jim H. on August 22, 2008, 3:01 PM

That is a boomin' shame. Unfortunately, I have been opposed, since my first overseas foray, to flying American carriers internationally due to the superior quality of service on international carriers, but come ON!

People can look at a ba-zillion different movies, but they can't get a meal on a ten-hour flight? Are they just trying to get people not to fly with them, on purpose?

Posted By Melissa on August 22, 2008, 3:29 PM

Pretty soon ALL of the domestic airlines will charge for food for overseas flights and the foreign airlines will be picking up more passengers due to this. When are we going to be charged for going to the bathroom? Will there be a slot to put in coins so the door will open or will we also have to bring our own toilet paper?

Posted By David Magier on August 22, 2008, 4:18 PM

Just another reason United will lose my business.

Posted By melanie on August 22, 2008, 4:36 PM

I was expecting this to come next. But, I will not pay for meals on international flights. I'm already used to toting food for domestic flights. So, there is no difference.

Posted By Dense on August 22, 2008, 5:07 PM

$5 six inch sub from Subway, ask for mayo on the side!!!

Posted By Denise on August 22, 2008, 5:23 PM

Hopefully other airlines will not follow suit and UAL will wake up. How can an airline feel they are saving fuel by reducing weight if passengers bring on food, etc. Let's be honest here -- the majority of US airlines are poorly managed and execs. are grossly over paid. UAL is not an airline I will fly. I always bring food on all airlines and have never had a problem going through security. Empty water bottle--refill at drinking fountain. Employees are surly, planes are dirty & cramped --no fun traveling via US carriers. Look at foreign carriers --better prices, food and service and they fly on jet fuel that costs them as much as US carriers pay. Does anyone think Europeans will fly here on a US carrier with no food and nickel and diming? I doubt it.

Posted By mlg on August 22, 2008, 7:40 PM

Airplane food has always been in the "not so good" catagory. We now pack our own food, as well as taking an empty water bottle through security and filling it before we board. At least I know the food I will be eating will be of good quality and I will not be paying $2.00 or more for water.

Posted By baandbb on August 22, 2008, 8:09 PM

If I bring MRE can I bring a coleman stove to heat it??

Posted By Larry Borden on August 22, 2008, 9:29 PM

Since when were meals ever "free" it's like fees to check bags, all these things need to be factored into the airline's overhead then built into the ticket price.

Remember the SE Asia flight that caught fire because someone had sneaked on a camping stove and tried to heat their own food - many people were killed.

Secondly, food brought onboard will have to be subject to the 3oz limit...

Last flight I had on United (SFO/FRA) was a nightmare - I will NEVER fly that airline again and have been telling all my friends and acquaintances about the poor service.

Posted By Mike on August 22, 2008, 10:14 PM

I actually look foward to the meals, not that they're great tasting, but b/c I at least get something from the flight. Next are they going to have us load our own luggage onto the plane? By the time all of the cut backs are done will the airlines (in general) show us how to fly the plane ourselves???!!!

You know where all the cash handling will lead... sky robbery- where the poor flight attendant will get held up! That will lead to air marshall on every flight which will lead to higher cost for flights which will lead... when does it end?

Posted By Amy R on August 23, 2008, 12:00 AM

We recently flew United to Munich, and they certainly lived down to their reputation as the worst airline in the skies. The abuse starts before you even get on the plane -- to save money on ground staff, they force all economy-class passengers at Dulles International to use electronic check-in. For international passengers especially, this can be pretty complex. When we checked in, the handful of United agents who were on hand mostly just ignored or ridiculed passengers -- primarily Europeans accustomed to a higher standard of service -- who were baffled by the self check-in process. But it's hard to tell who dislikes the airline more: passengers or their own employees. When we got to Munich we transferred to Lufthansa; the difference was like night and day. Brad

Posted By Brad Freden on August 23, 2008, 4:21 AM

I never ceases to amaze me how low the airlines are stooping to get rid of customers. Charging for meal service on international flights is insane. Why is it that I can get a free meal with wine or beer on a 1.5 hour flight within Europe on an European carrier, but a US carrier can't afford to feed their customers on a 7 hour transatlantic flight? Something is terribly wrong with US airlines' business models.

Now granted, because I fly internationally 5-6 times a year, and because I an an elite-level FF on Delta, I rarely fly coach overseas, and I am not subject to most of the recent cost implications of flying aside from ticket price, but I still diagree with this United plan.

Other airlines will start following suit - it's just a matter of time, a very short time. And I expect them to start charging for baggage on international flights.

I feel sorry for the ticket agents and flight attendants because they are the ones who are going to take the brunt of passenger discontent on this.

And Thank God I will be able to stop flying in the next year or two because air travel has become such an ordeal and unplesant experience, I will be happy to stay home!

Posted By Roseanne on August 23, 2008, 10:29 AM

I will just make sure I do not do fly on this airline! When you take away too much from passengers you are going to lose them.

Posted By Sharog on August 23, 2008, 1:42 PM

I would certainly pack my own food. You really dont know if the food preparers sneeze while packing food.....all those germs. the airlines are nickel & diming everybody to death, pretty soon no body will want to fly.

Posted By brownie on August 23, 2008, 7:33 PM

It is very easy to pack a few energy bars and eat one one when you feel you need it. Now water is something you need to be sure you drink enough.You can buy a couple of bottles after Security.

Posted By J.B.Lewis on August 23, 2008, 10:18 PM

I will avoid United like the plague!!
Sorry that I have frequent flyer miles with United!!!

Posted By Lois on August 23, 2008, 10:45 PM

will load up with subs and then resell them on the plane

Posted By Bill on August 23, 2008, 11:31 PM

I will not fly United. I will pick another airline. If this continues on them also I will bring my own sandwichs and fruit. The airlines are making it so people will not want to fly. They are nickle and dime us and the fuel prices are coming down.

Posted By Delores on August 24, 2008, 9:08 AM

Don't they want passengers!??????? What smells! Onions Garlic sausage on home made salad with oily dressing spilled on the next seat as it is retrieved from the overhead locker or on the feet of the passenger next to them. Thank God for British Airways and QANTAS. It reminds me of flying on the Russian flights in the 90's Shall we all share the one plastic glass for the water as well???? That is what they did! That will ensure the flight attendants will still be employed.
The kids will be great to travel with too! Not to mention the TSA as the un wrap the sandwiches to check for illegal contents!
What about the 16hrs -24 hrs on the Asian flights
I'm sure they can dream up something good for them! FLY UNITED -- NEVER!

Posted By Jay on August 24, 2008, 12:27 PM

We fly to visit family overseas with our 2 small kids. So I'm supposed to either a)pack enough food for 4 of us on our carry-ons, which means I may have to check more luggage and pay for that, or b)I have to pay $36 for some lousy sandwiches. Other airlines are able to still make a profit, even with the high fuel prices. Get a new business plan, United.

Are they still offering free alcoholic beverages on international flights? If so, do they realize that they're going to have a lot more drunks to deal with?

Posted By Maureen on August 24, 2008, 12:34 PM

I have already adapted to domestic flying by not purchasing overpriced food that can be purcased for a cheaper price after passing through security and carried ontothe aircraft. Travelers like myself who are retired on fixed incomes do not have the option of unlimited expenses when traveling and therefore learn to adapt.

Posted By John on August 24, 2008, 1:16 PM

No way I'd pay $9 for a sandwich. On domestic flights I already eat at the airport and/or buy
something to take on the plane. I'd do the same for
an overseas flight if I had to take Unied--more
likely I'd fly with someone else, probably non-American.

Posted By Sharon Owens on August 24, 2008, 1:50 PM

If there is an improvement in quality of food offered, I would consider purchasing on long trips but not if it is the same "airline fare". No food on a transoceanic flight would be an opportunity to start my long delayed diet.
WP

Posted By Walter Plattiers on August 24, 2008, 2:43 PM

I stopped flying United years ago because of their surly crews. Now, I find the idea of paying $9.00 for iffy food a laugh riot! I hope they are going to have inflight medical care for people who have to eat and might not be able to plan adequately for their nutritional requirements.

Posted By bchbayb on August 24, 2008, 6:05 PM

Are they serious? I can understand not having food domestically because you only usually have 3-4 hours before you change planes and are able to grab something in the airport. On an international flight, your times are much longer. Ridiculous not giving meals. Will they start charging for using the toilet next? I guess they'll start by not charging to stand, but if you sit, it will be $2. When will it end????

Posted By Sandra on August 24, 2008, 9:27 PM

The "free meals" were frozen dinners anyway so no big loss, especially if you're trying to cut back on sodium! I bring my own food, drink mix and snacks. They take up space initially in your carry on bag but that's extra space for some shopping you might want to do at your destination.

Song - a little test that Delta did in 2003-2006 - was the first to start selling food (again) and snacks on their domestic flights. I was shocked to find the food was actually edible and agreeable on the palate! I later found out they were using local "celebrity" chefs and mixologists for their recipes, ie, Peter Davis of Henrietta's Table in Cambridge MA and Rande Gerber, Whiskey Park, Boston, MA (aka Mr. Cindy Crawford). The only downside was they would run out of food sometime. So they started a pre-order via their website to avoid such predicaments. Passengers were able to pay with credit card or cash. I think most of the bugs have been worked out with whole food for sale thing and the program is now on mainline Delta. United's food program should go off without a hitch.

Posted By Patti O'Malley on August 24, 2008, 10:47 PM

Would buy what I want after security. Airlines will price themselves out of buisness. Will not pay $9:00 for a salad or sandwich, of which I'm not sure is good.

Posted By Vicki Durst on August 25, 2008, 12:53 AM

Virgin or BA here we come......

Posted By Scott Reinhart on August 25, 2008, 12:11 PM

Just add the cost of food drinks pillows and blankets into the price of a ticket then you know what you will get when you board the plane.
Personally I will just fly an airline that still has some of this stuff!

Posted By Lisa on August 25, 2008, 12:28 PM

Maybe the thing to do is bring along extra food to trade. Food could become the new in-air currency, akin to cigarettes in prison.

UAL is bleeding cash, so it has to try something. However, this policy seems penny-wide and Pound foolish because it's likely to alienate so many customers.

To me, personally, it's not that big a deal. Compared to the price of a ticket and transfers to and from airports at both ends, 9 bucks is not that big a deal. If I have to, I'll pay the 9 and eat what ever it buys. Generally I'd prefer to bring on some snacks, such as fruit, nuts, and crackers.

If that guy who wrote about Limberger cheese actually carries it on board, I will need to counter with a durian, a delicious but very stinky fruit.

Posted By Jim O'Neill on August 25, 2008, 12:37 PM

Unlike the foreign-based airlines, our domestic airlines continue to treat passengers with total contempt. Instead of taking away the meal, why not just raise prices a few dollars for the tickt to cover the expense. I'd happily pay a few dollars more for the convenience. It's too much, obviously, to expect the doestic airlines to do the rational and thoughtful thing. Unless, of course, they're thinking only of themselves. I will no longer fly domestic airlines trans-atlantic. In the long run, it won't be a problem, since the domestics are gradually alienating their entire customer base. They'll put themselves out of business. Good riddance.

Posted By Lorrey Bianchi on August 25, 2008, 1:07 PM

I live in Washington, and fly out of Dulles for overseas flights.
I will take a different airline if possible; if not, I'll certainly pack my own.
Virgin will be my airline of choice.
United has a lot of balls to institute this policy.

Posted By mike on August 25, 2008, 1:12 PM

United airlines are just plane blood suckers and vultures. That is it?

Posted By Fr. Robert on August 25, 2008, 1:23 PM

Everyone who has written something negative is stupid. Fuel costs are driving airlines bankrupt. Airline tickets prices are still MUCH cheaper than they were 10 or 30 years ago (don't forget to factor inflation in when you look it up). Foreign airlines get MASSIVE government subsidies (much bigger than here). Eat at home, eat at the airport, or bring something on. Stop whining.

Posted By Thomas Hastings on August 25, 2008, 2:47 PM

I travel United a lot out of Washington and don't look forward to 8-hr flights with no food. On the other hand, the selection of food for sale on my last domestic flight was so grim, I was happy to have brought my pbj and apple

Posted By Susan on August 25, 2008, 2:59 PM

Back when Eastern airline still flew I used it to go from Miami ti Santo Domingo 0nce a month for several years. I always stopped at Publix grocery store and got a sub sandwich and potato chips to carry on board then requested a whole can of coke from the stewardist .Several times it almost caused a riot in coach class cabin because other people thought I was getting preferential service.

Posted By robert Barnum on August 25, 2008, 4:19 PM

I don't think there's anything that hasn't already been said. Interesting point re liability when someone brings on a PB&J sandwich or nuts and someone else is allergic or gets ill from a smell, or when there is a medical issue regarding amounts and timing of food. Another hypothetical (so far) medical issue would be sanitation, should the pay toilet model so many posts described come to fruition. Most of the Africa flights come through Europe. Most African parasites that fell Americans and give them stomach problems, have a 7-10 day incubation period. Most people's trips to Africa are a week or two long. This means that most people will be hit with stomach issues just as they are coming home. In coach, the lines to use the toilets and getting to them (on a United 767 between IAD and London, only coach toilets are in the back, and I think there were only 2 or 3 - so people would have to go 20 rows back for the loo) are bad enough, I can't imagine having to pay to use a toilet on a flight like that.

One clarification, though... people are mentioning about alcoholic drinks being served in the cabin, and a couple of the posts refer to them as free. I have flown United from London to Dulles three times in the past 3 months, both coach and business, and can tell you that in coach, you have to pay for any alcoholic beverages including wine (not just the hard stuff). In business it's still gratis.

Posted By Lera on August 25, 2008, 8:16 PM

As a frequent flyer with UA, I'm disappointed but not surprised at this bonehead decision. As noted in other comments, United will lose more customers than they gain. Penny wise and pound foolish. It is now clear why Continental is not going to go along with a complete merger with this Tilton-led Airline.

Posted By dennis erford on August 25, 2008, 8:18 PM

Just in case they start charging for the use of the restrooms, I plan to pack my sandwich in a sturdy plastic bag!

If the restroom thing really starts to pan out for United the flight delays will explode to bring in the income needed for solvency.

Just kidding - I fly BA - until they start charging extra for seat with a safety belt.When does the stupidity stop??

Posted By John Gillies on August 25, 2008, 10:46 PM

Ridiculous! Maybe if the CEO's were not paid exorbitant salaries the airline might think a little more about the people who pay their paycheck.

When flying international being served a meal helps break up the long flight.

I don't get how just about every other country in the world gives you a hot meal on flights 1 hour or more and still gives you a good deal on tickets.

Something just not right there. Also United has less legroom than any other airline, the seats are crammed so close together that a short persons knees are snug against the seat in front of them.

United has just been taken off my list of carriers until they change their thoughts on how they treat their passengers.

Other carriers could benefit from this change.

Posted By Nancy on August 26, 2008, 12:26 PM

As a >150k/year traveler, I have found Northwest's A330's to be nice and clean, and their meals decent, especially when they serve Indian food in coach due to the large number of thru-travelers going MSP-AMS-DEL. We all have myriad choices of carriers and routes, and I simply avoid carriers like United that seek to win the "rush to the bottom".

Posted By Michael on August 26, 2008, 4:25 PM

Do I get to pay to "carry-on" my meal also? When I buy a plane ticket, I am not signing up for a $1000.+ BYOF picnic.

Also, do you remember your last flight and the smell of the food cart two rows up. Thank goodness I was served the same food or I would not be able to stand 20 different smells mixed together. I vote to limit the smells.

Is it possible to be an idiot and run (down) an airline? I guess so.

Posted By Marie on August 26, 2008, 7:03 PM

And who cares. First class meals are awful....I always pack my food.

Posted By betty on August 26, 2008, 9:10 PM

I also will not fly united. As far as TSA taking the food from flyers, what are medically disabled people to do? Those of us that have to have a lot of water due to medications, and medical reasons. The diabetics who can not eat these kinds of sandwiches due to the bread, and not too many fruits either. The handicapped who have to fly overseas, or to S America and physically can not carry all that due to having to carry medical devices, and an entire case of medicines in their original containers. Like you said the food is undesirable at the best but what about those who the food could actually harm. There are people that are on strict diets and need to travel sometimes. This is not just related to United and the US airlines. This is related to greedy American corporations which we as a nation should put them out of business, including privately owned medical insurance deciding who lives or dies. We need to say enough is enough and boycott some of these corporate monsters and as has been mentioned over and over again about the CEO's outrageous perks, bonuses, stock options and being rewarded by a board of directors who give bonuses for treating people and humanity as POS unless you have the income in the six figures who are actually treated like humans. We treat our animals better. We are at fault here for allowing this to go on for so long. Change laws vote against corporations lobbying for basic human rights such as water, food and life. This is not just a nuisance it is a disease permeating our society from every element in it. This does not cover all the disease, bad food, smell, vomiting, etc. from having the foods unrefrigerated for 10 15 hours or more. How safe is that? How about that lady that died on the American flight and they would not put down for medical treatment. No working defibs for basic life saving techniques. Think about that while these very greedy people making these decisions fly private jets and probably whine if someone does not straighten their pillows and feed them and wipe their bums for them. That is why they need all the body guards because they are above the rest of us.

Posted By Katie on August 26, 2008, 9:42 PM

Charge me $20 extra on my ticket and provide me with a decent meal please. Short of this, I'll bring my own though it's not typically convenient.
Another negative of bringing your own food is other passengers eying you as though they haven't eaten in three days and observing you through the window from outside a restaurant on a snowy day. It's very inhibiting.

Posted By Thomas Strome on August 26, 2008, 10:30 PM

I think this is outrageous and insulting. I paid almost $1,200 for my last flight from Italy to the US ($250 more than the previous flight I took, same route) and they want to charge me $9.00 for a sandwich? Seriously. On a 9 hour flight.

Why is it Lufthansa and other European companies can afford to offer you a glass of wine, but these American companies feel the need to dollar us to death?

I'll avoid them on principle. I'm stubborn like that!

Posted By Cherrye at My Bella Vita on August 28, 2008, 3:29 AM

Well, as airline food goes this is no big loss. Frankly on a flying to Europe I would rather get to the Airport earlier, enjoy a good dinner at one of the "real" restaurants, purchase snacks after going through security and eat breakfast on the other end upon landing. Since most flights leave the US at around 7:30-8:00PM and arrive at local time during the 7:30-8:00 AM hour it makes it easy to do this. what to purchase on board? Alcoholic beverages and/or coffee and water.

Posted By Barb Paine on August 28, 2008, 2:39 PM

Lufthansa is a wonderful airlines to fly...great food, service,etc.
American owned airlines must cut into the CEO's paycheck. What would they
do without passengers? Remember the old motto, "The customer is always right"? Well United must pay attention or close the airlines down. Personally,
the foreign airlines are better than our own airlines here.

Posted By Barbara Peterson on August 28, 2008, 10:48 PM

I will definitely bring my own food if the airlines start to charge...their food will be overpriced and less flavorful than what I can pack. The problem is not being able to bring beverages onto the plane due to security. Can we bring food through security?

Posted By Sharon on August 29, 2008, 12:24 AM

I will switch my loyalty to other airlines. Some ethnic foods stink, imagine sitting next to someone who opens their package and this nauseating odor (aroma?) envelops you ... and lingers for 5-12-16 hours? I travel a lot and it wld be as annoying as someone yaking on their cell phone next to you. Who are the blowheads running the airlines these days? If they go bankrupt it is their own doing.

Posted By brigitte on August 29, 2008, 11:42 PM

Flew KLM on my last flight to Europe...great service, great food..my choice for overseas...Southwest or Alaskan for domestic..

Posted By lonna Lee on August 31, 2008, 5:26 AM

In the past few years we have flown transatlantic 5 times mostly from Ireland on continental the service was good the food was ok. Last we flew from Germany on LTU the service was great,we were given candy and wine free, a snack, and dinner which were quite good,we were also given a package which contained a blanket a blow up pillow ear phones and eye covers. The tickets were actually lower than our airlines. The only problem was to buy a drink you needed Euros which we sold back at the airport,otherwise a great airline.

Posted By Mike Puttick on September 2, 2008, 10:41 AM

Sad, sad, but certainly this does not surprise us. Having watched UA nudge other carriers out,then start to cut services is a decade long activity. I avoid them whenever possible. I hated being nastily told at DIA by a United agent that I had to purchase a more expensive ticket to sit in the EXIT row. I thought this was a class free zone, an area where one was supposed to be able to assist in case of emergency. Will there be some special emergency food available for those with special needs on these foodless flights? United should reconsider, get it's act together, and start trimming at the top, not the actual folks that work with the passengers. Also, they do need to retrain their crews on how to smile and consider each person. Much better service currently exists on the smaller airlines.

Posted By Donna on September 2, 2008, 3:09 PM

I traveled to London in Feb.-March 2007 on Northwest/KLM, and to Dublin in March 2008 on Delta. Both airlines provided hot meals, alcoholic beverages, and blankets in coach class with no extra charges. I can't remember about pillows. I agree with most of those posting comments that this represents minimal acceptable service.

Posted By Thirza Sloan on September 2, 2008, 9:24 PM

I would pack my own meal. No way I would pay $9 in addition to an overseas ticket. It is ridiculous! Bad enough that I have to pay for an additional bag.

Posted By K. Gilbert on September 2, 2008, 10:11 PM

United reversed themselves today...the meals in coach will stay.

Posted By Michael on September 3, 2008, 4:53 PM

Just read in USA Today that United has rescinded on its decision to eliminate meals on overseas flights due to customer concerns (complaints?). We used to fly United first....no more. The best flight we have had was on Quantas from L.A to Sydney. Good food, wine and an amenity kit.

Posted By R. Codd on September 4, 2008, 9:54 AM

Having had a meal on an overseas United flight, San Francisco to Beijing, I assure you that this is no great loss. The meal wasn't just tasteless, it was inedible. In all fairness, I could say the meal served on the Hong Kong/San Francisco route was tolerable.
All that said, are we now supposed to pay separately for the trash they serve? or, do we purchase overprized/underflavored items available at the airport once you have cleared security? It might be better to just not eat for 15 hours.

Posted By tori on September 5, 2008, 9:31 AM

It's been to the point for quite awhile now that I prefer to pack my own meal regardless of whether theirs was free or not. Flying sure isn't what it used to be.

Posted By John on September 8, 2008, 12:04 AM

I will never fly united airlines anymore.There are other airlines with better service.

Posted By nitz on September 8, 2008, 2:26 AM

I'm from the 1970's elegant flying era. I hate this new system. It takes the fun out of air travel. It makes everything an inconvenience. What's a "free meal"? Tell me the price of tickets hasn't included a budget for food all along. Flying used to feel special and they made you feel welcome and wanted. Now it is like a "cattle call". Let's get rid of the magazines too. Save the paper and the expense and give us something to eat! I'll gladly join anyone who wants to start a movement to bring back elegant travel with comfort (leg room), blanket and pillow, drinks, towels, reading material, etc. Let's reinvent what used to be good.

Posted By Patricia Shears on September 9, 2008, 12:21 AM

They're going to price themselves right out of business. Two things that might help them are:

1)Take a long look at South West an see how THEY do it.

2) Some years ago the Swedish rail system was in the mire. Prices were going up and up every year while usage was dropping. A new executive had the idea of slashing the prices in half....and after screams and cries they went with it. Now that the prices were lower than bus travel more people used the train and in one year they were in profit.
The moral?
Sometimes an issue can be solved by GIVING rather than taking away.

Posted By KD on September 10, 2008, 1:46 PM

Its about time. The food that you can buy is much better than what they serve on the airplane. I have no problem with this idea. The only reason they serve food is from the past when airports did not have any food in them at all. This idea to serve food has stuck with the airlines for too long. Everybody just buy your food before or buy it on the plane. Its about time.

Posted By John robert Sutton on September 11, 2008, 3:31 PM

If you are sitting beyond row 18-19 do not expect any fresh to be left for sale. BRING YOUR OWN! or you will be eating high sugar and high fat junk foods. Salads and sandwiches will most likely be gone. Airlines do not want to carry the extra weight to try to feed all passengers. (Experience w/ UNITED on trip to Hawaii)

Posted By Robert MacDougall on September 11, 2008, 4:17 PM

I will use another airline. If that is impossible I will pack my own food. In August I flew on So. African Airways and had wonderful food and service. On top of that I had lots of leg room. They also provided pillows and blankets sealed in cellophane, eye covers, a toothbrush and toothpaste. I understand that most airlines that are based out of other countries (than the U.S.) give this kind of extra service. Needless to say from now on I will try to book on non U.S. airlines. I don't sound like a loyal American but actually isn't that what free enterprise is all about? Who can give you the most for your hard earned dollar?

Posted By Joanne Wolf on September 11, 2008, 7:11 PM

This reminds me of one of my pet peeves: Please be thoughtful of your fellow travelers when you choose what to bring on board. The smell of tuna fish or cheesesteak sandwiches, not to mention french fries, permeates the entire cabin. I've come close to being sick more than once!

Posted By Carol Elder on September 22, 2008, 9:53 AM

FYI to Chris who posted 21Aug....STEWARDESSES are now Flight Attendants and ARE NOT THERE TO SELL food! Primarily a FA is on the aircraft to SAVE YOU in case of an emergency, be it medical or any other event!
I know my response has not anything to do with the subject, which btw, in some FA opinions should be given back in the cost of a passengers ticket...ie the cost of drinks, food and bags..., but the ignorance of people and what they believe the actual job of a FA is, service is very important but serving $9 sandwiches wont take away our job to SAVE YOU!

Posted By KIMBERLY on October 1, 2008, 2:16 AM