When I started flying on my usual airlines, food and drinks were free, even in economy, although you had to pay to watch the movie.

Now the movies (a dozen or more channels) are free in economy. The food and drinks are also still free. I don't accept the free colouring books and games any more, though; I think I've grown out of them.

Oh, one other difference? These airlines used to be state-subsidised. Now they stand on their own two commercial feet, even through 11.09.01 and SARS.