Introduction to Shrinkflation in Air Travel
As if harried travelers hadn’t had enough on their plates, "shrinkflation" has apparently hit the skies. American Airlines is accused of offering only miniature plates in their frequent flyer lounge, presumably to cut down on culinary expenses.
The Reason Behind Small Plates
The move is seen as a way to control food costs by ensuring that customers eat less or take less food. According to experts, the small plates are a deliberate attempt to reduce food waste and save money. "You want to make sure that customers eat less or at least take less to control the food costs," said a travel expert. "And they do that with very small plates."
The American Airlines Admirals Club
The forced guideline to control participation is said to be offered on the American Airlines Admirals Club system, a luxury lounge with various amenities, including personal travel support, shower suites, and a complete buffet. Day passes cost $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles, while the annual membership costs between $850 and $85,000 AAdvantage miles for one person and $1,600 (160,000 AAdvantage miles) for a household.
Problems with Small Plates
Despite their supposed reputation, the airport seems to be saving themselves on serving sizes. The plates are so small that it is almost impossible not to make a mess. "You don’t have much to eat and you don’t think it is good to stop it," warned a frequent flyer. "When you pick up food with pliers and put it in the plate, some objects like salad always fall on the floor."
Inconsistent Plate Sizes
The so-called minimalist court directive of AA is particularly problematic because the lounges offer the same plates, regardless of whether they serve salad or oversized sausages. This inconsistency is causing problems for customers, who are finding it difficult to manage their food on the small plates.
Expert Opinion
A travel expert quoted a submission from a reader who pointed out that the American Airlines Admirals Club in Charlotte is now "served in full size of sausages", but the plates are not bigger and they don’t fit. The expert said that the AA’s smaller dish does not have the basic functions of a plate, including keeping food from a table surface, the grouping of objects, and the provision of a flat, often decorative space to arrange food attractively.
Lounge Guidelines
Members of the Admirals Club are prohibited from removing food, drink, or magazine from the premises. This guideline is strictly enforced, and customers are expected to consume their food and drinks within the lounge.
Conclusion
The small plate policy is seen as a cost-cutting measure by American Airlines, and it is not going down well with customers. The airline’s uniform approach to the strategy is being criticized, and customers are calling for a change. As one expert joked, the airline could try to recognize its recently announced mission to offer a "premium experience" and invest in dishes instead of just in the food.
