Delta Air Lines will cut free snacks and drinks from its economy cabin on flights under 350 miles, starting May 19. Roughly 9 percent of the carrier’s 5,500 daily routes, such as Los Angeles–San Francisco, will lose complimentary coffee and cookies. Passengers on those short legs will come to the gate without the usual fare for everyday traveler they will pay for the.

Delta says the tweak will standardise service across its network, noting that flights under 250 miles already receive no beverages or snacks. The airline will add full beverage and snack service to its Delta Comfort and Main cabins on routes 350 miles and longer, expanding the number of flights that offer complimentary fare to all passengers daily.

The decision sets Delta apart from rivals. American offers free snacks and drinks on any flight over 250 miles; United provides free drinks on all flights and snacks above 300 miles; Southwest gives drinks and snacks on select routes over 251 miles. Analysts say the cut undermines Delta’s premium image and could dent customer loyalty for passengers in.

Delta’s move may spur customer complaints and impact ticket sales on short hops. Airlines that keep complimentary service on these legs may see a competitive edge, while Delta will rely on its broader cabin offerings to retain travelers. The shift underscores the industry’s ongoing battle to balance cost control with passenger experience for today and.