Can you ask for more food in economy?

Economy passengers don't often get full meals on short-haul flights, but they do get a round of drinks and snacks. If you find yourself a little peckish or thirsty after that service, politely ask your flight attendant for another round.



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United Economy dining United Economy® travelers can enjoy a variety of refreshments, snacks and more on board. Some are complimentary while others are available to purchase. The exact items available on your flight may vary depending on your destination or the length of the flight.

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So what does happen to uneaten airline food? Some airlines allow flight attendants to eat untouched business or first class meals. But the majority of the time, they are either incinerated or dumped in a landfill.

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But TSA replied that there is no new policy governing food, and the request is simply to reduce clutter in bags for X-ray screening. “This is an opportunity for them to clarify the rules,” said Sree Sreenivasan, a social-media consultant. “We all want to cooperate. We want this to work.”

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Foods you can't pack in your carry-on
Think: creamy cheeses, liquid chocolate, liquid coffee, creamy dips and spreads, gravy, honey, hummus, ice cream, jam, jelly, juice, syrup, peanut butter, salad dressing, sauce, salsa, soda, soup and yogurt.

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Yes, you may pack food in your carry-on or checked bag, but remember all food must undergo x-ray screening. Foods that are liquids, gels, or aerosols must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. TSA officers make the final decision on whether certain items are permitted into the secured areas of the airport.

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On long-haul flights, many major airlines include a free hot meal and a heartier snack as well as soft drinks and some free alcoholic beverages in an economy class fare. Other carriers, especially low-cost airlines, charge economy passengers for all refreshments regardless of route length.

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According to the travel blog the Points Guy, an economy-class meal costs an airline about $4, and a business-class meal ranges from $25 to $30. First-class meals can cost upward of $100.

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“Most airlines still have free snacks available in the main cabin,” Laurie explains. “Whether it be pretzels, chips, cookies or stroopwafels, those on an economy ticket on a major airline will receive a free snack with their complimentary beverage.”

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Generally, on long-haul flights food is served shortly after start and then again shortly before landing. As a rule, the higher the class, the closer to takeoff/landing the food will be served. Because there are less people in higher classes, it's faster to go around with the drinks first.

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Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked bags within the continental United States. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 oz are not allowed in carry-on bags and should be placed in your checked bags if possible.

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Can you take food through airport security? Are you allowed to bring your own food/snacks on board a plane, or eat your own meal while waiting for your flight to depart? Yes, you are! Did you know that (in theory) you can even take a cheeseburger with you?

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There's a reason for it, it's not just made up. Salt water is considered mildly corrosive - aka may rust things. Sure, most of the metal in a plane is aluminum (and now carbon composite in the 787 and A350), but not all of it.

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While you are allowed to bring food and other organic matter through security in US airports, it is likely to be examined by security officers. Most scanning machines can detect biological material (think fruits and vegetables) pretty clearly.

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Hot Tip: The 3-1-1 rule states that you can carry on items that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less in a 1-quart-sized bag. There is no limit to the amount of food you can bring on board, as long as it can fit in your carry-on luggage!

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Organic materials like paper, food and explosives are orange, while blue or green are used for metals and glass.

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The basic rule of thumb is if it's solid, it's probably safe to take it through security. These include cooked and uncooked items like baked goods, turkey, chicken, stuffing, casseroles, fresh fruits and vegetables, and spices.

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