Gate introduces meal choice on Swiss airline

Economy-class passengers on Swiss International Air Lines will now have to pay for their meal if they want one.

Airline caterer Gate Gourmet International now offers a restaurant-style choice to flyers on Swiss economy-class European flights more than 70 minutes long. The options include gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, breakfast specials and a selection of hot and cold drinks. No hot meal is offered yet, although the company plans this by the end of the year.

This is Gate Gourmet's latest effort to boost revenues following the decline in air travel after 11 September 2001. According to the company, it gives customers the choice of whether or not they want to purchase a meal for their flight.

Passengers can expect to pay €6.50 (£4.53) for a complete breakfast, which includes croissant, yogurt, orange juice and tea or coffee. Lunch, which is a choice of salad or sandwiches, a snack and a drink, costs €10 (£6.97).