You may have to pay extra on your next flight: Flight attendants' shocking proposal!
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Air travel, a marvel of modern transportation, has revolutionised the way we explore the world.
From crossing vast oceans to hopping between continents, aeroplanes have become the wings of our wanderlust, propelling us to destinations near and far with unparalleled speed and efficiency.
However, while it has always been associated with a certain level of luxury and convenience, including the provision of in-flight meals, this could soon change due to a proposal by some flight attendants.
Over the years, airlines have been re-evaluating the services they offer in a bid to cut costs and increase profits.
Many airlines now charge for services that were once complimentary, such as seat reservations, luggage, and even checking-in.

According to Aero Telegraph, flight attendants from the German-based airline, Lufthansa, expressed their frustration over the growing number of special meal requests and proposed for passengers to be charged for special meal requests, including around 11 options to choose from such as gluten-free, low-cholesterol, and religiously compliant meals like Kosher.
They argued that this move would help manage the increasing number of special meal requests, and streamline the in-flight service process as some flights are seeing as many as 190 special meal requests.
This proposal is the latest in a series of changes that have seen airlines move towards a more a la carte approach to their services.
This influx of special meal requests is causing significant delays to the rest of the in-flight service, as these meals have to be delivered first.
Additionally, flight attendants have pointed out that these meals are not always labelled with the seat number and name, making it difficult to find the right passenger.
In response to these challenges, Lufthansa staff are reportedly calling for a limit on the number of special meals per flight or a reduction in the number of options available.
Some have even suggested that passengers pay for special meals, in the hope that this would deter travellers from requesting them.
A spokesperson for Lufthansa stated, 'The range of special meals and the associated on-board service processes, like other product and service topics, are regularly reviewed and further developed.'
If this proposal pushes through, how can you save or make the most of your money?
Some experts shared some tips regarding this.
If you're looking to make the most of your in-flight meal, Mark Brega, British Airways’ Executive Chef, said: ‘Generally, British food is very good, but it has a light flavour profile, so spicier, more aromatic dishes tend to work better.’
‘Buttered chicken or chicken tikka masala are among our most popular dishes,' he suggested.
However, if you're hoping to sleep during your flight, experts recommend avoiding heavy meals, with some even suggesting fasting during flights to avoid jet lag.
Jebediah, a teacher who frequently travels between Vietnam and the United States, swore by this method.
'I fast on the first flight, eating at the midway airport stopover. I fast again on the next flight too, then eat again at the usual mealtime at my destination.'
While this has been all about what passengers eat during flights, have you ever wondered what the cabin crew have while flying?
You can learn about their interesting choices and the reason behind them here.
What are your thoughts on this proposal? Would you be willing to pay extra for a special meal? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
From crossing vast oceans to hopping between continents, aeroplanes have become the wings of our wanderlust, propelling us to destinations near and far with unparalleled speed and efficiency.
However, while it has always been associated with a certain level of luxury and convenience, including the provision of in-flight meals, this could soon change due to a proposal by some flight attendants.
Over the years, airlines have been re-evaluating the services they offer in a bid to cut costs and increase profits.
Many airlines now charge for services that were once complimentary, such as seat reservations, luggage, and even checking-in.

Lufthansa flight attendants proposed an additional charge on special meal requests. Credits: Shutterstock
According to Aero Telegraph, flight attendants from the German-based airline, Lufthansa, expressed their frustration over the growing number of special meal requests and proposed for passengers to be charged for special meal requests, including around 11 options to choose from such as gluten-free, low-cholesterol, and religiously compliant meals like Kosher.
They argued that this move would help manage the increasing number of special meal requests, and streamline the in-flight service process as some flights are seeing as many as 190 special meal requests.
This proposal is the latest in a series of changes that have seen airlines move towards a more a la carte approach to their services.
This influx of special meal requests is causing significant delays to the rest of the in-flight service, as these meals have to be delivered first.
Additionally, flight attendants have pointed out that these meals are not always labelled with the seat number and name, making it difficult to find the right passenger.
In response to these challenges, Lufthansa staff are reportedly calling for a limit on the number of special meals per flight or a reduction in the number of options available.
Some have even suggested that passengers pay for special meals, in the hope that this would deter travellers from requesting them.
A spokesperson for Lufthansa stated, 'The range of special meals and the associated on-board service processes, like other product and service topics, are regularly reviewed and further developed.'
If this proposal pushes through, how can you save or make the most of your money?
Some experts shared some tips regarding this.
If you're looking to make the most of your in-flight meal, Mark Brega, British Airways’ Executive Chef, said: ‘Generally, British food is very good, but it has a light flavour profile, so spicier, more aromatic dishes tend to work better.’
‘Buttered chicken or chicken tikka masala are among our most popular dishes,' he suggested.
However, if you're hoping to sleep during your flight, experts recommend avoiding heavy meals, with some even suggesting fasting during flights to avoid jet lag.
Jebediah, a teacher who frequently travels between Vietnam and the United States, swore by this method.
'I fast on the first flight, eating at the midway airport stopover. I fast again on the next flight too, then eat again at the usual mealtime at my destination.'
While this has been all about what passengers eat during flights, have you ever wondered what the cabin crew have while flying?
You can learn about their interesting choices and the reason behind them here.
Key Takeaways
- Lufthansa flight attendants suggested passengers should be charged for special meal requests on flights.
- They were concerned about the logistical challenges and delays caused by the high number of special meal options, which could be as many as 190 per flight.
- Some staff believe that charging for special meals might reduce the number of requests, and are also considering limiting the number of options available.
- The airline continually reviews its range of special meals and on-board service processes, indicating a potential for change in its offering.
What are your thoughts on this proposal? Would you be willing to pay extra for a special meal? Share your thoughts in the comments below.