Given how profitable KA is, I really don't think it can justify any cost-cutting measures! If I am correct, CX and KA are still run under different management.

Anyway, I am curious what those boxed meals look like - I don't think it is fair to judge before seeing the product. CX 791 is the redeye from HKG to KUL and CX 798 is the redeye from CGK to HKGl Those are pretty long flights though. I am sure those are trial flights. For a redeye, most passengers possibly don't want to eat too much or a quicker service to allow more rest times. HKG to KUL is a three hours flight so that is understanding. But CGK - it is a five hours flight. I wonder if they still have a warm component or not.

Yes CX actually tried to serve continental breakfast on all long haul flights (except JFK) in economy class but that pretty much got overwhelmingly bad responses.

In general, Asians prefer warmed meals (that's why CX warmed the sandwiches), but it can be challenging for a 45 minutes hope to Kaohsiung. KA tried to cut back meals and snacks on these TW flights before and let see how long before KA goes back to hot meals. However, given how expensive these TPE/KHH flights are and I think passengers rightfully expect more! But with hot meals, they have to staff an extra F/A in Y. I have a feeling that they try to cut back on staffs again to save money. Food costs are possibly relatively minor, compared to labor!

IMHO I honestly don't mind cold meals - if they are decently prepared. I am sure most passengers don't mind a Japanese style bento box with sushi rolls and fresh fruits, or even cold soba noodles or Chinese style cold noodles with shredded chicken and sesame sauce.

But thanks for the updates, B-HXG!

Carfield

PS. B-HXG - any cutbacks in the premium cabin in 2013?