But It Won't Last For Long...

The word that comes to mind is... "capitulation." Days after United Airlines announced its plans to charge business-class passengers -- among any airline's most profitable traveling segment -- for food on domestic and even most international flights, the Chicago-based airline said it will launch a "trial" program to bring free food back into the biz-class cabin.

However, the program -- set to begin later this year -- probably won't last forever, and it won't mean luxurious dining either. "As part of the trial, on domestic flights with three cabins of service, United will be offering United Business customers complimentary fresh sandwiches, salads, snack boxes or snacks, depending on the length of flight," the airline said. "The products will be the same as the Buy on Board sandwiches and salads offered in United Economy."

To help soften the blow, United notes business-class customers will continue to enjoy complimentary beverages, including wine and cocktails.

"Our industry is changing and we need to tailor products and services to what customers value and provide them with more choice," said Graham Atkinson, executive vice president and chief customer officer. "We are listening to our customers as we test new options in both the business and economy cabins."

Speaking of those "new options," United still plans to start charging economy passengers for food on trans-Atlantic flights. Meal service on those flights, which typically range between 5-8 hours, used to be free.

In direct contradiction to United's own announcement to its employees earlier this week, however, the airline pointedly adds "there are no changes under way for international business or first-class customers, or for United's transcontinental p.s. flights." But don't expect that situation to last.

"At the end of the year, United will evaluate the results of the trial and determine next steps," the carrier added.

FMI: www.united.com