IndiGo, one of India's leading low-cost airlines, has decided to change the way it sells beverages on board its flights. Shaking up traditional airline practices, IndiGo is now bundling the sale of beverages with snacks. Which means, no longer will passengers be allowed to purchase a soft drink without purchasing a meal. 

Swapan Dasgupta, former Rajya Sabha MP, voiced his concern on the social media platform, saying: “I just discovered mid-air on an IndiGo flight that you can’t buy a soft drink. The airline has made it obligatory to also buy a snack, regardless of whether you want it or not. This is coercion and I urge (Aviation) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to restore the principle of choice to flyers. Squeezing flyers through all sorts of extras must stop.”

In response to these negotiations, IndiGo issued a formal statement which reads : 

“We’ve revamped our services to provide an efficient, sustainable, and affordable snack experience. This initiative aligns with our commitment to go green, as it has saved thousands of cans from being thrown away. Economically, it’s a better value for passengers, who can now enjoy a complimentary beverage with any snack purchased on board.” The statement further explained the cost analysis saying, “Previously, our menu included cashews (Rs 200) and a coke (Rs 100), with the total being charged at Rs 300. Our updated menu now offers any munchy paired with a juice or coke at Rs 200 (the beverage is complimentary). Our buy-on-board service is entirely optional for customers to exercise their choice”

What it means for Passengers

  1. Single Package Delivery: Instead of handling separate items, the cabin crew now delivers a single package containing both the snack and the beverage. This simple adjustment can streamline the process, make it quicker, and cause less disturbance to passengers.
  2. Reduced Waste and Improved Space Utilization: Combining snacks and beverages in one package will inevitably reduce the amounts of cans and packaging, leading to a more environmentally friendly solution. This method also reduces clutter in the cabin, providing a more spacious and relaxed ambiance.
  3. Better Experience for Passengers: With these changes, passengers can enjoy a more fine dining experience on board, eliminating the inconvenience of holding multiple items.

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