Passenger divides opinion after insisting on eating meat next to vegetarian during flight

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By James Kay

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A passenger on a flight has split opinions after he insisted on eating a meaty burger while sitting next to a vegetarian.

I think most of us can agree that plane food isn't exactly the height of fine dining unless you're in first class, and then the meals suddenly look incredible.

But for the majority of us, we'll have to make do with questionable meals or the snacks that we purchased before boarding the plane.

With that being said, most flights will now offer meals that cater to all dietary requirements - including vegetarians... though that won't mean that those around you won't opt for meat.

Airplane food
Plane food has definitely improved over the years. Credit: Juan Silva/Getty

Speaking of this, a passenger aboard an eight-hour flight recently sparked a mid-air dispute by indulging in a burger while sat next to a veggie.

The airborne fast-food drama unfolded when the hungry passenger, faced with minimal complimentary snacks, opted for a heartier meal during a stopover.

"I checked with the gate agent to see if I can bring food onboard, and she happily reassured me that I could. I went and got a burger, fries, and a drink. When I was allowed to put the tray down, I did and started to eat," they shared on Reddit.

However, not everyone on the plane was delighted by the aroma of the mid-flight feast. The man's enjoyment of his meal hit a snag when a neighboring passenger expressed her disdain for meat and fried foods, claiming that the smell was making her ill.

Eating a burger
The Redditor's inflight meal caused a bit of a commotion. Credit: Cate Gillon/Getty

"I know I’m right when it comes to the airline rules, but the food is pungent in an enclosed area, and she’s still glaring at me," the Redditor said.

Turning to the internet for validation, the man sought public opinion on whether his in-flight dining behavior was inappropriate. To his relief, a majority of Redditors rallied behind him.

One person said: "This is a plane, not this woman's personal living room. I cannot believe how rude some people are on planes - she needs to fly private if she wants it 100% to her demanding standards."

A second added: "Public transportation sucks, but eating on a plane is normal and acceptable so unfortunately it was her thing to deal with. It's not like you can easily wait until you land to eat cold mushy food."

Burger
Is it okay to bring a burger onto a plane? Credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty

While a third concluded: "Tell her the sooner she stops complaining, the sooner you will finish your food, and the sooner she will not have to smell it anymore."

That being said, I'm a firm believer that some foods shouldn't be consumed on public transport. I'm looking at the people who unwrap a tuna sandwich on trains.

What are your thoughts?

Featured image credit: Nikolett Szabo / 500px/Getty