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“What’s the deal with airline food?” tends to be the default phrase deployed by people who trot out a Jerry Seinfeld impression, but it’s a pretty valid question given the infamous reputation of the slop typically served in the skies. However, some carriers have made strides to improve on that front—including Delta, which is preparing to add Shake Shack to its in-flight menu.
It’s worth noting Jerry Seinfeld never actually floated that question during his act (he uttered it during a Saturday Night Live sketch where he poked fun at his comedic style), but the underwhelming nature of the food offered on airplanes has long been a hot topic among many flyers who’d rather go hungry than subject themselves to the questionable meals that tend to leave a lot to be desired.
With that said, a number of airlines have made a concerted effort to improve the quality of the grub they offer in the cabin in recent years—especially when it comes to trying to please customers who’ve shelled out extra dough to avoid rubbing shoulder with the plebians sitting in economy.
Most of the members of that group are international carriers specializing in long-haul flights that sell even their most basic tickets at a premium due to the comparatively luxurious experience they offer, but Delta has been doing what it can to make some strides on that particular front.
On Tuesday, we were treated to a pretty intriguing development when Delta announced some flyers who want to help themselves to a Shake Shack burger on a flight won’t have to stand in line at the terminal after partnering with the chain to serve its signature offering.
As much as I’d like to tell you anyone will be able to order a burger straight to their seat, the option is only available to first-class passengers on flights longer than 900 miles (it will initially be offered on flights leaving Boston starting on December 1st, but Delta says it plans to expand to other hubs in 2025).
The logistics of having a vat full of hot oil on an airplane means anyone who goes that route will be forced to settle for chips instead of some piping hot Shake Shack fries, and the meal also includes a salad and brownie for dessert.