Delta Air Lines is embarking on a tasty new partnership with Shake Shack, bringing the much-loved burgers to its First Class menu. Starting December 1, 2024, passengers flying out of Boston (BOS) will be able to enjoy these popular comfort foods at cruising altitude, marking what many are calling the airline’s significant upgrade to onboard dining experiences.
Shake Shack has made a name for itself with its delicious, juicy burgers, and Delta aims to bring this flavor to its premium passengers. The first major offering will be the Shake Shack Cheeseburger, which features a mouthwatering 100% Angus beef patty, topped with cheese, and served on a toasted potato bun. Passengers will also have the option to customize their burgers with fresh toppings such as ShackBurger tomatoes, lettuce, and Shake Shack’s famous ShackSauce, all neatly packaged on the side for added convenience.
Dining at 35,000 feet will also include some complimentary sides—a Caesar salad, delicious chips, and even a dark chocolate brownie that'll remind passengers of the indulgent Shake Attack flavors from Shake Shack desserts. It’s not every day you can dig your teeth and taste some quality fast food soaring through the clouds!
This partnership is not only about delicious food; it's also practical. Passengers seated in First Class on routes extending over 900 miles will have the chance to pre-select the Shake Shack Cheeseburger meal option. But here's the catch: those orders must be placed at least 24 hours before departure. No last-minute burger cravings can be satisfied on this flight.
Delta has hinted at plans to expand this Shake Shack offering to other U.S. markets by 2025, promising to allure many burger aficionados across the country. "A delicious cheeseburger is iconic comfort food. Our customers know this, which is why burgers are one of the top-ordered menu items we offer, and we’re thrilled to upgrade the offering with Shake Shack," said Stephanie Laster, Managing Director of Onboard Service.
While this collaboration has sparked excitement among loyal Delta and Shake Shack fans, it also raises some questions and concerns about fast food's place on airplanes. There’s been chatter about the obesity crisis looming large across the nation, with some pondering whether airline meals, especially fast food, could exacerbate this problem.
A valid perspective argues against promoting highly processed meals—like fast food—on flights when obesity continues to be viewed as an existential crisis, straining not only personal health but also national healthcare systems. Could indulging on burgers contribute to the issue? Many believe there’s merit to the concern, yet others weigh this with the fact burgers bring joy. They might be like alcohol, making people happy (and let’s be honest, keeping them quiet) during flights—not to mention much preferable to bland airline meals.
One commenter on the new menu option quipped about the possibility of seeing other fast-food restaurants on flights, humorously speculating on KFC's fried chicken making its way to the skies, showing the public's mixed emotions on the matter. Fast food may be nostalgic and comforting for many, but is it the healthiest choice?
For Delta, it seems like giving passengers what they crave is the most important—especially for those willing to spend on First Class experiences. Will burgers become the new steaks on airplanes? This enhanced menu aligns with passenger preferences where comfort and convenience reign supreme.
No doubt, many travelers will be eager to taste this shake-up. Delta is certainly banking on it proving successful. So, if you're planning on flying First Class with Delta soon, you might want to get your burger order ready. After all, who doesn’t love to indulge on comfort food, especially when high up above the clouds?
To wrap up, Delta's collaboration with Shake Shack signals exciting changes for future flights, offering premium travelers the comfort and satisfaction of quality burgers at altitude. While many applaud the move, the conversation over public health continues as we ponder the culinary future of airlines. Will this lead to the introduction of more fast-food options or prompt balanced dining choices? Only time—and the passengers—will tell. But till then, it looks like Shake Shack is ready to take to the skies!
