Here’s Why Delta Now Dropping Refreshment Service on Some Routes

When it comes to travel, some people are extremely loyal to their preferred airline. Can anyone relate to the scenario of traveling with a certain person/group and you only use a particular airport or a specific airline? I get it, people like what they like (and those points or loyalty miles, am I right?)

Well, a major airline recently announced a pretty significant change that will impact tri-state area travelers, so you may want to pack an extra snack or two and take a look at any upcoming travel plans.

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Delta Air Lines New Policy For 'Short' Flights

In an announcement on May 5th, Delta Air Lines informed travelers that as of May 19th, their free snack and beverage service for economy travelers who are heading less than 350 miles will end. This modifies their already existing policy of no beverages or snacks on flights less than 250 miles, and includes 'many short hops between cities in the Northeast' according to the New York Times.

Delta's decision puts them in a similar position as United, who also has a tiered system for snack and beverage service as well as American Airlines who has a 250 mile threshold for drink and snack service.

Though it feels like a big change, overall, the impact on Delta travelers is not as much as one might think.

Delta reports just 9% of their flights will be affected by this change, and those flights already received an “express” version of service, meaning only water, coffee, tea and two snack options were offered as opposed to their full beverage and snack options on longer flights.

The change, though, will impact flights from JFK to Boston.

What's The Reason Behind Delta's Change?

Obviously there's been a lot going on with air travel these days, especially with the cost of fuel, but Delta is citing 'consistency' as the force behind the change. A Delta spokesperson shared the following with The New York Times :

The change is intended to create a more consistent experience across our network. Even on the small number of flights without beverage service, our crew will continue to be visible, available and focused on caring for our customers, like they do on every flight.

Will this change impact your decision to fly 'local' with Delta moving forward?