Originally Posted by
ECOTONE
I realize this isn't restricted to economy pax. What I'm confused about is why economy pax, who only are offered meals on longer flights, are upset about not getting the measely $15 anymore. It always seemed to me that the $15 was a bonus - certainly nothing I deserved as an economy pax.
I can understand your question. I think part of it was to apologize for the inconvenience and help customers (are they still called that?) with the high cost of an airport meal where prices are much higher than eating your destination or at your home.
The only time I have received these is from VDB'ing and volunteering to downgrade to a lower cabin of service.
I think it is the theme of "take our financial woes out on the customer - it's their fault we're in this mess" that is frustrating and upsetting customers more than anything.
Of course, the airline industry has been very cyclical this way. I believe this too will pass. I'm just not sure United will be around for the next round, as I believe other cAAriers could survive their first bankruptcy reorganization better than United could survive a second.