BA jettisons free snacks on shorter flights in favour of M&S food

Economy class passengers on short-haul BA flights will no longer enjoy free snacks from next year.

If they want to eat they will have to pay for their choice from a selection of M&S snacks and salads.

The change will bring the UK flag carrier in line with low-cost rivals such as easyJet and Ryanair.

It comes five months after the appointment of new BA chief executive Alex Cruz, who previously ran Spanish no-frills carrier Vueling.

BA claimed the change was in response to customer feedback.

Passengers are currently given a light snack, such as a bacon roll and a soft drink.

Mr Cruz said customers "want to choose from a wider range of premium products".

They will be offered items including crisps for £1, a cheddar ploughman's sandwich for £3, or a spiced chicken with quinoa and rice salad for £4.95.

The M&S selection will replace free food on short haul and domestic flights from Heathrow and Gatwick from 11 January and from London City and Stansted by next summer.

Business class customers will continue to be offered a full, complimentary menu.