[QUOTE=donardboy;2868523]
Remember whilst in the air for 5 hours you will be receiving food at public expense (ie: In-Flight).
Only if you have onboard re-heating/cooking facilities....not all aircraft have an oven/microwave. Those that don't lose out. For example, a FJ transiting europe to Cyprus without AAR. Or a Kingair on a euro-trainer. Stops for fuel overseas and crew are not entitled to any cash/rates for lunch unless they stop for more than 5 hours. Not a very efficient use of the ac. There used to be an exemption to the 3 hours rule on the ground for ac without hot food facilities to just 1 hour on the ground. This has now been lost (although I hope temporarily).
However, going back to rates is certainly heading in the right direction
. Just goes to show if we, the end users, kick up enough of a fuss then someone listens to us....