Delta To Stop In-Flight Food And Beverage Service On 450 Short-Haul Flights

If you are flying with Delta Air Lines and feel hungry, you will only be offered a snack if your flight is longer than 350 miles (563 km). Starting May 19, Delta is set to discontinue its free snack and beverage service on routes under 349 miles (562 km), which typically have a flying time of under an hour. This includes approximately 450 daily short-haul flights. Popular short connections such as Los Angeles to San Francisco are among those expected to be affected.

According to a statement cited by WCNC, the airline described the decision as part of a broader effort to create a more uniform onboard experience across its network, rather than a cost-cutting exercise.

"Beginning May 19, Delta is adjusting onboard beverage service to create a more consistent experience across our network," the airline said, adding that shorter flights will no longer offer complimentary food and beverages, except in Delta First class, where full service will continue.

The revised policy is expected to affect around 9 per cent of Delta's daily flights, as reported by Fox Business. The change could reshape expectations for travellers on short-haul routes, especially those used to a quick snack or drink aboard.

Despite the removal of food and beverage service on shorter routes, Delta has assured passengers that cabin crew engagement will remain consistent.

"Even on the small number of flights without beverage service, our crew will continue to be visible, available, and focused on caring for our customers, as they do on every flight," a Delta spokesperson told People magazine.

Full Beverage And Snack Service On Flights 350 Miles And Above

Flights exceeding 350 miles will benefit from enhanced onboard offerings. Passengers travelling on these routes will now receive full beverage service, including alcoholic drinks, along with a wider selection of snacks.

The airline noted that around 14 per cent of its flights will gain upgraded service under the new system.

A Gradual Shift In Meal Service On Delta Over Time

This is not the first time Delta has scaled back onboard offerings on short routes. The airline has not provided food or beverage service on flights under 250 miles since 2015. In 2017, it further modified its approach by introducing an "express service" model for flights under 349 miles, typically limited to water or basic snacks. The latest move effectively removes even that simplified service on the shortest routes.