Airberlin adds short-haul J, removes free snacks/drinks in Y

[Mattg]

Airberlin announced it will be adding a business class to its short-haul routes within Germany and Europe. Like most intra-Europe J cabins, it will not consist of a dedicated cabin, but rather the existing front seats will be used with the middle seats blocked. The J service will include lounge access, priority at the airport and in-flight meals. Airberlin currently operates economy-only flights within Europe.

Meanwhile, the complimentary drink (beer, soft drink, tea, coffee or water) and snack (usually a warm pretzel, chocolate bar or bag of chips) is being phased out in economy as the airline tries to recover its losses. Customers will be able to buy snacks and drinks instead.

Air Berlin adds business class on short-haul in drive for profits | Daily Mail Online

 

[moa999]

Not hard to 'add' a business class in Europe, or rather just block the middle seat

 

[Mattg]

Well, I just had a browse of the German equivalent of AFF and people are not happy about this at all! The main gripe is from Platinum AB flyers who can currently select row 1 seats, get a guaranteed free neighbouring seat (complimentary shadows if the flight isn't full are a published Topbonus status benefit) and a free snack and drink. They'll now have to pay for J to get basically the same thing.

There is also some discussion about the poor J hard product that is expected, considering the seats will be no different to economy seats. Although others have commented that it would be no different to intra-Europe J on Lufthansa (and quite a few other airlines, for that matter).

 

[Mal]

Not hard to 'add' a business class in Europe, or rather just block the middle seat

Yep, and just redirect the now cut catering from Y to J.