American Airlines has introduced a revised meal policy for pilots, sparking concerns about flight delays at major airports. The new rule requires pilots to buy a meal within 90 minutes of departure if their scheduled in-flight meal is unavailable. If the cost exceeds $30, the airline will not reimburse them. This policy change adds pressure on pilots who already handle multiple pre-flight duties.
Previously, pilots could get meals after landing, but now they must secure food before takeoff. This adjustment may lead to delays, particularly at busy airports like Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA), and Chicago O’Hare (ORD). These hubs operate with tight turnaround schedules, making any added requirement a potential disruption.
American Airlines pilots have raised concerns about how the new rule impacts safety and efficiency. Pilots need proper nutrition to maintain focus during flights. If they cannot get meals in time, they must choose between flying hungry or delaying departures. Either option creates risks for on-time performance and overall airline reliability.
The airline is trying to minimize disruptions by placing management staff at key terminals to handle catering and operational issues. This initiative aims to streamline the pre-departure process, but its effectiveness remains uncertain. Pilots argue that the policy still forces them to prioritize finding food over essential pre-flight preparations.
As American Airlines pushes for cost control and procedural clarity, this meal policy change presents new operational challenges. The airline must balance financial efficiency with pilot well-being and flight punctuality. With the busy travel season approaching, passengers and industry experts will closely watch how this decision affects performance.
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