Originally Posted by
CXZRHaddict
Today I got a newsletter from Singapore Airlines Switzerland promoting their new PEY-Class on flights from Zürich to Singapore. What really surprised me was the fact that passengers can choose from six different main courses. While SQ is obviously making an effort to set a new standard in the industry, Cathay seems to have neglected its "fourth cabin class" over the past couple of months. I was quite irritated when on a recent flight in PEY-cabin I was served a tray with the main course from economy class. First of all I thought that it was a mistake by the catering company. Maybe they forgot to load the PEY-trays. But no: When I approached the inflight manager she explained to me that from now on this is going to be the new standard. I felt even more irritated, adding the fact that the new tray somehow reminded me of being in a hospital. Comparing to what SQ ist offering, I can only urge the managers in charge to improve the PEY-product again: Come on Cathay, you can do better - it is time to bounce back. At least for the higher fare one pays in PEY, one can expect some kind of enhancement.
First time I took PEY was way back in 2013 (I think). Food was good and set apart from Econ. Then there was a noticeable nose-dive from then on.
Some companies offer their products at an introductory price then slowly bump up the price without compromising quality, or in some cases they even improve it. Most companies would tweak their products over time - for the better.
I think all along, PEY was a carefully planned "highway robbery." Once their patrons got used to it, they dropped quality in all aspects, but charged a bit higher later on.
There was even a time that not only food and service were better. If PEY seats were not available at time of booking, they offer you J class on the web site on the short hop (e.g., MNL or TPE). Now, even when there is a last minute aircraft swap, they discreetly force you to downgrade to Econ, even at the airport.