US urges airlines to offer healthier free snacks on long-haul flights

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has called for airlines to provide healthier snack options on flights. His comments came as part of a broader push to improve passenger experience under the new 'Golden Age of Travel Starts With You' campaign. Meanwhile The Department of Transportation recently launched the 'Golden Age of Travel Starts With You' initiative. The campaign aims to enhance services for passengers, including food choices on board. Duffy specifically highlighted the lack of free, healthy snacks on long-haul flights, noting that options like fruit and vegetables are rarely available without extra cost.

Major US carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines currently offer free snacks on flights over 250-300 miles. However, these are often processed or high-calorie items rather than nutritious alternatives. None of the airlines have responded to Duffy's remarks about improving snack quality. Separately, Duffy has withdrawn a proposal that would have required airlines to pay passengers cash compensation for flight disruptions caused by the carriers themselves. The decision marks a shift in policy as he focuses on other priorities, including a $12.5 billion modernisation of the nation's air traffic control system. No US airline currently provides healthy snacks free of charge on a regular basis for long-haul flights. Passengers seeking healthier options must typically purchase them separately, if they are available at all.

Duffy's call for better snack choices aligns with the Department of Transportation's wider efforts to improve air travel. The $12.5 billion air traffic control upgrade remains a key project under his leadership. For now, passengers on long-haul flights will continue to rely on paid options if they want healthier food on board.