United Airlines to charge for food on some international flights

Airline Industry Information, August 22, 2008

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

United Airlines, which is owned by UAL Corporation (Nasdaq: UAUA), is launching a trial of different food options for business and economy class passengers, including a charge for food on international routes.

The airline is planning to charge travellers in economy class for food provided on transatlantic flights to and from Washington Dulles International Airport. The Buy on Board options will include sandwiches, salads and snack boxes.

On domestic flights United will offer business class customers complimentary fresh sandwiches, salads, snack boxes or snacks, depending on the length of flight. These products will be the same as the Buy on Board sandwiches and salads offered to economy class passengers. Those in business class will continue to receive complimentary beverages, including wine and cocktails.

United has said that it will evaluate the results of the trial at the end of the year.

The plans have been criticised by the airline's pilots, whose union described the proposed changes as "a disastrous business strategy".

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