{
  "id": 860091,
  "title": "Service von Airlines: Kein Sandwich beim Flug - aber Internet",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/service-von-airlines-kein-sandwich-beim-flug-aber-internet",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-14T10:24:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Handelsblatt",
    "slug": "handelsblatt",
    "url": "https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/dienstleister/service-von-airlines-kein-sandwich-beim-flug-aber-internet/100247342.html"
  },
  "original_language": "de",
  "account": "KLM Airlines in Europe once offered a cheese sandwich and a drink for free on economy flights. However, this complimentary meal will be discontinued starting in October. Passengers will now have access to coffee, tea, water, orange juice, and a Dutch syrup waffle. KLM is expanding its selection of paid food and drink options to accommodate passengers' growing desire for more choices and flexibility.\n\nThis trend is not limited to KLM, as many airlines are cutting costs in economy class. The expert in aviation Laura Frommberg sees this as part of a larger trend: airlines are increasingly differentiating their services to attract more passengers. Booking experiences are becoming more personalized, from seat selection to baggage options. Budget airlines like Ryanair have long used this system, charging additional fees for services to keep base ticket prices low.\n\nAirline economics are tightening, and many passengers prioritize ticket prices and safety over onboard service. According to a recent survey of 1,000 people in Germany, only 20% found onboard food and drink to be \"very important.\" Internet access ranked second at 16%. The trend may even move towards free Wi-Fi on all flights, as it is considered a more basic need by 79% of respondents.",
  "summary": "Früher war kostenloses Essen an Bord auch in der Economy ein Standard. Das gilt längst nicht mehr. Heute ist alles individueller, vieles kostet. Eine Sache aber könnte künftig häufiger gratis sein.",
  "key_points": [
    "KLM discontinue free cheese sandwich on economy flights in October",
    "Offer coffee, tea, water, orange juice, and Dutch syrup waffle",
    "Internet access ranked second most important by 79% of passengers"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Airlines are shifting their focus from complimentary meals to paid options and internet access, reflecting passengers' growing prioritization of low ticket prices, safety, and personalized booking experiences.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}