Delta cuts snacks on some flights, adds more on others
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Delta is stripping snacks and drinks from some short flights, while expanding full service on others — the latest sign airlines are reworking what's included in a ticket.
Why it matters: Jet fuel — one of airlines' biggest expenses — has surged amid the Iran conflict, pushing up costs and forcing carriers to cut routes, raise fares and rethink service.
Driving the news: Delta Air Lines plans to eliminate food and beverage service in the main cabin on flights under 350 miles starting May 19, the company confirmed to Axios.
Delta framed the move as a consistency play.
- Many Delta flights under 250 miles already didn't include snacks or drinks, meaning there's no change for some routes, the Atlanta-based carrier said.
- About 9% of its daily flights will shift to no onboard service through the move, while roughly 14% will gain full beverage and snack service.
How it works: Passengers in first class will continue to receive full service on all flights.
- For other passengers on flights without beverage service, crews "will continue to be visible, available, and focused on caring for our customers," Delta said.
Reality check: Legacy carriers have historically included basic perks, unlike budget airlines that have long relied on buy-on-board models.
- Delta's 350-mile service threshold is one of the most restrictive among major U.S. airlines.
Zoom in: American and Southwest offer snacks and drinks on flights over 250 miles, while United provides free snacks on flights over 300 miles.
- JetBlue, by contrast, still offers free snacks and drinks on all flights — including limited options on shorter routes.
What we're watching: Whether rivals follow Delta in raising service thresholds.
- And how travelers respond on short routes where trains or driving are viable alternatives.
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