Survey reveals mark up of in-flight food
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A survey commissioned by TravelSupermarket has revealed some of the biggest earners on airlines’ in-flight menus.
Mark-ups ranged from an average 241% for baked goods to 2,601% for hot drinks, according to the study.
The research took the example of a muffin on easyJet, which cost around GBP2.50, however a similar product in a supermarket would cost 25p – based on buying a pack of four for GBP1 – meaning the airline enjoyed a 600% mark-up.
Chocolate bars, crisps and meat snacks also had huge mark-ups – 380%, 302% and 200% respectively,
A bottle of water has a mark-up of 718% with Jet2 and a can of Pepsi has a 848% mark-up with Ryanair.
“Airlines realise they have a captive audience of potentially hungry mouths to feed once they close the aircraft’s doors,” Bob Atkinson travel expert at TravelSupermarket. “However, for passengers flying with airlines that don’t offer complimentary meals or snacks, the cost of food and drinks can really add up, particularly for families.
“A basic snack of a sandwich, crisps, chocolate bar and drink each way on board easyJet will add up to £70.40 for a family of four this summer. This cost can easily be reduced with savvy planning and buying drinks at the airport which are cheaper than the on-board price. People can both save money and get the items they really want as choices may be limited once on board. Buying items from a local supermarket is often the cheapest option, although picking up a meal deal or snacks in the airport outlets of Boots or W.H.Smith is another good option for saving money on airline food prices.
“There is of course no getting around the airline liquids ban. However families can still save a significant amount by purchasing non-alcoholic drinks in the departure area before the flight – you’ll also find the choice is greater.”
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