Shake Shack Soars to New Heights: Delta Expands Burger Service to More Cities
Delta Air Lines is taking the in-flight dining experience to a whole new level, announcing the expansion of its partnership with the popular fast-casual burger chain, Shake Shack. Starting this week, first-class passengers on select Delta flights can enjoy the iconic Shake Shack cheeseburger, bringing a touch of gourmet indulgence to the skies. This exciting development follows a successful initial launch out of Boston in December and signifies a commitment from Delta to elevate the onboard experience for its premium travelers.
The expansion means that Shake Shack burgers are now available on Delta flights departing from four additional major cities: Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, and Seattle. This allows a broader range of Delta’s first-class passengers to savor the beloved burger while traveling. However, the perk is limited to flights exceeding 900 miles, ensuring that passengers have ample time to enjoy the meal during their journey.
The partnership between Delta and Shake Shack has already proven to be a resounding success. Since its initial launch in Boston, Delta has served over 10,000 Shake Shack burgers to its first-class passengers, showcasing the high demand and positive reception of this unique offering.
Delta Managing Director of Onboard Service, Stephanie Laster, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, "The response has been incredible and we’re thrilled to expand this partnership, giving even more Delta travelers the chance to enjoy Shake Shack along their journey."
Shake Shack President of Global Licensing, Michael Kark, echoed Laster’s sentiments, highlighting the excitement of bringing the Shake Shack experience to a wider audience. "We are excited to spread the experience to more flyers."
While the prospect of enjoying a Shake Shack burger at 35,000 feet is undoubtedly enticing, it’s important to note the specifics of the in-flight offering. While the classic Shake Shack cheeseburger takes center stage, a key side dish is absent. Sadly for fry lovers, the airline is not serving the chain’s famous fries alongside the burger.
The in-flight Shake Shack cheeseburger is a delightful rendition of the original. The burger features a 100% Angus beef patty topped with melted cheese, all nestled within a soft and toasted potato bun. To allow for customization and ensure optimal freshness, toppings such as tomato, lettuce, and Shake Shack’s signature ShackSauce are served on the side.
Beyond the burger itself, the in-flight meal includes complementary sides to create a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience. Passengers can enjoy crispy chips, a refreshing Caesar salad, and a decadent dark chocolate brownie for dessert.
This strategic partnership between Delta and Shake Shack reflects a broader trend within the airline industry to enhance the in-flight experience and cater to the evolving preferences of travelers. By collaborating with recognizable and beloved brands, airlines can create a sense of familiarity and comfort for their passengers, making their journey more enjoyable.
Laster emphasized this point, stating, "This is part of our work to partner with brands our customers already know and love while continuing to raise the bar for the in-flight experience – whether that’s making your favorite cheeseburger available at 35,000 feet, or ensuring you have a variety of fresh meals to choose from that fuel you on your adventure."
The expansion of the Shake Shack partnership is not merely a symbolic gesture; it demonstrates Delta’s commitment to providing a premium and memorable experience for its first-class passengers. By offering a high-quality, recognizable, and customizable meal option, Delta aims to exceed expectations and set itself apart from its competitors.
The collaboration also highlights the increasing importance of food and beverage offerings in shaping the overall perception of an airline. In a competitive market where airlines are constantly vying for customer loyalty, providing exceptional in-flight dining can be a significant differentiator.
Delta’s partnership with Shake Shack is a testament to the power of collaboration in enhancing the customer experience. By leveraging the brand recognition and culinary expertise of Shake Shack, Delta has successfully introduced a unique and highly desirable offering for its first-class passengers. The airline is betting that the comfort of the familiar, along with the enjoyment of elevated burger indulgence, will continue to be a welcome addition to their premium cabins.
The ongoing success of the Shake Shack partnership will likely influence Delta’s future strategies for in-flight dining and partnerships with other popular brands. As airlines continue to seek ways to enhance the passenger experience, expect to see more collaborations that bring the best of the culinary world to the skies. In the meantime, Delta’s first class passengers on select routes can enjoy the delicious taste of Shake Shack, thousands of feet in the air. The sky is truly the limit!
