I dream of being able to afford to travel at my expense anywhere out of the crisp bag catering style cabin. Recently traveled LHR to LAX and back with United at peak school hols with 2 kids and I'm sure that although $5 a drink was bringing some cash into cash starved airlines it faded into insignificance with the extra revenue being raised at over £700 a ticket - especially when you now see what BA are offering, and others will follow, now that the captive market has gone away (until Xmas that is).
It seems inevitable that all long haul will follow to help with avoiding extra fuel charge costs if nothing else. If it ever spread beyond economy then what would the charge be for the premier cru and likes being served up front? Would the business class lounges charge also? How long will it be before food charges are rolled out as with charter flights to the Med etc.......I think I will try and get a concession stand going in T3 LHR to sell packed meals!
Silver and Gold Card holders watch this space.