How do I get a decent meal in the air now?

The short answer: plan ahead. KLM's new Grand Café KLM model, rolling out in October, still offers a free stroopwafel and a drink (tea, coffee, water, or juice), but anything more substantial costs extra. If you want a poke bowl or Caesar salad, you'll need to pre-order before the flight. So your best bet is to check the airline's website or app before you travel—many carriers now let you buy meals in advance, which often guarantees availability and sometimes saves you money compared to buying on board.

For domestic U.S. first class, American Airlines is expanding its partnership with Dallas's Pecan Lodge barbecue, offering smoked brisket and chopped brisket sandwiches as a pre-order option on all meal flights from Dallas–Fort Worth starting September 9. Reviews have been mostly strong, with one flyer calling the sandwich 'one of the best domestic J meals I've had in ages.' The key word is 'pre-order'—you have to select it ahead of time. So if you're flying from DFW, set a reminder to order once the window opens on August 9.

Beyond these specifics, the broader lesson is that complimentary service is shrinking, but quality paid options are emerging. For any flight where a meal matters, check the airline's pre-order menu or bring your own food. If you're in economy on a carrier like KLM, the free snack is now just a token; the real meal comes from your own planning or wallet. And if an airline claims cutting free food 'strengthens the warm and hospitable experience,' you're allowed to roll your eyes—but then take action.