British Airways passengers unmoved by the relaunch of first class last week - the emphasis behind the curtain is on style and private space - will welcome an economy cabin initiative on shorter European flights. Meal trays have been abandoned, replaced by deli bags with salads and sandwiches.

An Observer taste test (at the desk, not at 35,000ft) suggests this a better option than the plastic trays with their plastic produce. The sandwiches - like poached salmon on wholemeal bloomer with salad leaves and creamed cheese with roasted vegetables in a ciabatta roll - were the equal of any on the high street, flavoursome and with generous fillings. Lunch is rounded off with chocolate brownies or coffee choux pastries. Breakfast brings a choice of filled croissants with pastries, muffins and fruit salad.

Best of all these can be eaten when you choose rather than when the tray is shoved in front of you. The same selection will be served on trays, however, on flights longer than two hours 20 minutes.