Let’s talk airplane food—love it or hate it, we’ve all got stories. Some lucky passengers get those famous Biscoff cookies to snack on, while others enjoy surprisingly tasty meals, from gourmet dishes on long-haul flights to fresh meal boxes and snacks. And, of course, we’ve all had those moments where the food is … well, let’s just say less than stellar.

If you’ve ever been stuck with an unappetizing in-flight meal (or found yourself drinking their coffee or tea despite their dirty secret), here’s some exciting news: one popular airline is stepping up its food game in a major way!

But which airline is it? What’s the delicious upgrade? Can you get in on it? And, most importantly, will it be ready in time for your Thanksgiving flight? Keep reading—we’ve got all the juicy details!

What airline is getting a tasty upgrade?

Delta Plane Gettyimages 458076717 Kseditrevelpix/Getty Images

Big news for burger lovers in the sky: Delta just announced on Nov. 19 that the Shake Shack Cheeseburger is coming to their flights!

“A delicious cheeseburger is an iconic comfort food—our customers know that which is why burgers are one of the top ordered menu items we offer, and we’re thrilled to elevate the offering with Shake Shack,” said Stephanie Laster, the managing director of Onboard Service, in a press release. “Shake Shack’s people-first culture and commitment to enriching their neighborhoods are spot on with our own brand values of service excellence and helping the communities we serve.” 

This marks Delta’s first-ever partnership with Shake Shack, adding to its long-standing collaboration with Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) and its legendary founder Danny Meyer. Meyer, who also founded Shake Shack, has been a key player in bringing elevated dining to the Delta experience. In fact, select Delta flights out of JFK will once again feature meals curated by Union Square Events, USHG’s catering arm. 

Who can take advantage of these new onboard offerings?

Shake Shack CheeseburgerCourtesy Delta

We hate to break it to those flying in economy or business class, but the Shake Shack Cheeseburger is reserved for first-class passengers—at least for now! Starting soon, travelers seated in first class on routes over 900 miles will have the chance to pre-select the iconic Shake Shack cheeseburger as their in-flight meal. It’s the ultimate upgrade for those lucky enough to be up front! 

The Shake Shack Cheeseburger will be available for pre-select, so you can lock in your delicious choice ahead of time. Starting seven days before departure, simply use the Fly Delta app or the link in your email to choose or change your entrée—up to 24 hours before takeoff.

When will the food upgrade be available on the airline’s flights?

Sadly, you won’t be able to enjoy the Shack Shack Cheeseburger on your Thanksgiving flight. Starting Sunday, Dec. 1, passengers flying out of Boston can sink their teeth into this delicious upgrade. But don’t worry, it’s not just a Boston exclusive—Delta plans to roll out this tasty treat to other U.S. markets through 2025. So, get ready to elevate your in-flight dining game, one cheeseburger at a time!

What other culinary perks can you expect?

Attention Delta flyers: there’s even more good news coming your way! The airline has some exciting perks lined up to make your travel experience better than ever. Check out what’s in store below:

  • A refreshed wine program: Delta teamed up with Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson to craft an exclusive list of 20 incredible wines, featuring everything from rare Tuscan whites to bold California Cabernets.
  • New menus: Passengers in Delta One, First Class and Premium Select cabins are in for a culinary treat with brand-new menus on domestic and international flights. Think rich cocoa-braised short ribs or a fall-inspired butternut squash ravioli with beurre blanc. Gourmet dining and world-class wines at 30,000 feet? Yes, please!
  • New paper cups: Delta is continuing to roll out the use of their new paper cups. The end result: the elimination of nearly 7 million pounds of single-use-plastic onboard annually. Delta’s goal is to minimize single-use plastics on board by 2025.

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

Sources:

  • Delta News: “Now boarding: Delta to serve Shake Shack burgers on flights”
  • Delta News: “Culinary takeoff: Delta brings new wine selections and chef-designed meals onboard”
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Mariah Thomas
Mariah Thomas is an Associate Editor at Reader's Digest. She has more than five years of editorial and social media experience—including her past role as an Assistant Editor for Good Housekeeping. Her editorial work can be seen across various platforms, from Women's Health and TLC.com to Apartment Therapy and Westchester Magazine, where she cover...
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