Finnair’s “shortcut” connection between Europe and the far east via Helsinki is no longer compelling and it has scrambled to rebuild its operations given the new normal. That now includes cuts to the inflight catering, including a switch to buy-on-board for the second meal on two long-haul routes.
buy-on-board
easyJet expands AirFi deployment to 100+ aircraft
More than 100 additional easyJet planes are now flying with AirFi’s WiFi-based streaming entertainment and passenger engagement portal on board. The move follows a successful trial of the technology on easyJet’s Swiss-registered fleet earlier this fall.
AirFi delivers inflight retail for AirAsia (and more)
AirAsia selected the AirFi wireless platform to boost inflight retail sales and entertainment options on board. The carrier has long offered a digital on-board experience across parts of its fleet. Plus, a few other airline customers coming online.
AirFi LEO aims to alter the inflight retail landscape
It won’t support HD video streaming on board, but the AirFi LEO solution offers an expanded on-board shopping experience, real-time credit card payment authorizations, updated weather reports for pilots, and maybe even basic connectivity for travelers.
easyJet snags AirFi for digital inflight transformation
easyJet is the latest airline to shift its on-board retail experience to a digital solution. The carrier selected the AirFi platform as the hardware backbone to power its new inflight shopping platform.
Dining upgrades on the horizon for Delta’s Premium Select and Main Cabin passengers
More meal options are slowly coming back on Delta Air Lines. Progress is slow, as the carrier works to ensure supply chain stability and downline kitchen availability. But Premium Select and Main Cabin passengers should start to see some improvements as soon as next week.
Booze, fresh food return to JetBlue flights
JetBlue will bring back liquor and fresh food on board from the middle of March. The carrier will also update its Eat Up Cafe menu as part of the product relaunch.
British Airways revamps Speedbird Cafe, requires advance purchase
Passengers planning to eat on board their next British Airways short-haul route will need to plan ahead. As part of the new Speedbird Cafe program the airline will only cater fresh food for passengers who order and paid in advance.
ScootHub brings new and expanded in-flight portal to Scoot
The seat-back magazine and menu are now a QR code on Singapore’s Scoot. The carrier is launching the ScootHub in-flight portal starting in December, serving as a one-stop shop for on-board customer needs.
Lufthansa Group launches short-haul buy-on-board catering
The stale half-sandwich snack will disappear from Lufthansa Group flights in the new year. Passengers demanded better, and now they have the option to pay for it.