All MF operated long haul services are loaded with this style of catering during the industrial action. It is indeed to help with the reduced crew compliments on some services. Internally it is classed as 'disruption catering'. In essence it means, crew do not need to complete a separate desert service, as would normally be delivered. All other elements should be the same as normal, including wine, though some SCCM's may elect to do one bar round prior to meal service.

Operating with crew compliments less than normal is not as straight forward as it appears. Some elements of service may need to be cut (such as separate desert) for time, as on some longer flights crew need to guarantee rest (EASA regulations). We may also have to split breaks into 3 separate periods, if we cannot guarantee the required levels of "on duty" crew. It can also be related to H&S when using some of our new lightweight trollies, with one as opposed to two crew operating them.

In all honesty, customers should not realise that big of difference.

And there is no or very little ill feeling from those crew who have elected to work towards those who are taking industrial action. Any comments which eluded to this would be dealt with very seriously by management. I think all parties actually want an end to it.

Regards
D1L