Greater Bay Airlines has started offering complimentary pastries and beverages to all passengers, beginning July 31.
The Hong Kong-based carrier will serve the complimentary refreshments alongside its existing paid meal program, which offers 12 options starting at HK$38.
“The addition reflects the airline’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience whilst positioning GBA as small but agile compared to larger competitors,” said Crystal Rauti-Ho, Assistant General Manager Inflight Services.
Service details
The refreshment selection rotates regularly and varies by route duration across GBA’s 17 destinations in Japan, Taiwan, mainland China, Thailand, and the Philippines.
The airline operates Boeing 737-800 aircraft on routes typically lasting one to four hours.
Market positioning
The move is unusual for a three-year-old value carrier. Most low-cost airlines in Asia charge for all food and beverages to keep base fares low.
GBA is testing whether basic free hospitality can help it stand out in Hong Kong’s competitive market without giving up revenue from meal sales. It’s a middle approach – free basics for everyone, but passengers can still pay extra for proper meals.
The timing suggests GBA is trying to establish its identity as something more than a pure budget airline as Asian aviation recovers from the pandemic.
Images courtesy of GBA.
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