Qantas has rolled out a suite of new options and 50% larger servings as part of its new inflight dining menu for economy passengers, to be progressively introduced on international services from late November.
The national carrier ceo, Alan Joyce, unveiled the details of its improved “travel experience” for its annual 5 million international Economy passengers yesterday, saying the changes are costing the airline 40% more – but are able to do so with by "eliminating waste" in measures that include pre-buttered bread rolls, saving the airline costs for individual servings of butter.
Also part of the overhaul, is customer training, meaning faster service and more "face time" with passengers. While servings will get bigger, choices also increase from two to three main meals ranging from a healthy option, comfort food and a destination-inspired dish.
“We have worked closely with Australia’s leading producers and suppliers to deliver what we believe to be the best inflight economy dining experience offered by any international carrier,” Joyce said.
Economy passengers into Australia will also be able to take advantage of Select on Q Eat at no additional cost from March 2015, enabling them to pre-order meals online with access to an “exclusive” dish such as Wagyu beef as a fourth option, a service which was once only available to premium passengers.
“Together with new serving plates, which remove the need for trays, our crew will be able to serve and clear meals up to 30 minutes faster giving them more time to interact and assist passengers,” Joyce said.
Within 5 minutes after the passenger seat-belt sign is turned off, Joyce said customers will be served a Bickford’s cordial “signature welcome drink” including flavours exclusive to Qantas. The airline also serves Australian-owned Weis ice-cream bars and Ruby and Roy's traditional Greek yoghurt with granola.
“Qantas buys from more than 1500 Australian providers of foods, wines and beverages, helping many small Australian companies grow, develop and find new markets,” Joyce said.
Dishes on offer include smoky barbeque beef with roasted sweet potato, broccoli and corn or honey roasted chicken farro salad and seasonal vegetables with pumpkin and sesame seeds. Beef sliders, fresh fruit, maltesers and Carman's muesli bites are part of the self-serve and grazing options to be introduced.
