There really never was "free food" and there still is no "free food" even for those of us lucky enough to get a 1class upgrade. Also, there are no free softdrinks, no "free" Spinzels. Everything the airline "gives" you has a cost which needs to be covered by revenue. The only issue is whether to bury the cost in the ticket price or bill for it separately and have to do all sorts of extra bookkeeping. I know I sound like the "beancounter" I was a generation ago, but tht's the way it is.

Also, there's no "free gift wrap" at the dept store and there's no "free catsup, pickles, mustard & onions" on your burger.

Given a choice, on a coach flight, I'd rather pay for my meal with my ticket. Whats' confusing, however, is what would NWA do with my coach meal $ when I'm GoldUpgraded to 1class and then get my "non-free" "free meal"? Sounds like more bookkeeping than it's worth!