Air Fare: Airlines Dazzle Flyers With Designer Meals

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

I remember a time when a decent and fairly decadent meal was served in every cabin on a plane. And, I also recall a time when you were lucky to get a small bag of peanuts or pretzels as a snack. In fact, one comedian recently joked about how beverages were distributed sparingly with an eyedropper.

And, not too long ago, airlines, for the first time in history, seemed to be in trouble. And, that it seems sent some soaring in the direction of customer service, at lease when it comes to first class.

In order to dazzle frequent first class flyers and to encourage other consumers to ride the air waves first class, some airlines are trying to lure hungry travelers with gourmet meals prepared by noted, celebrity chefs.

Passenger headed for South America or Japan via United Airlines are just some of those who get to experience an eclectic menu including sautéed prawns, and crispy short-rib wontons with organic Thai barbeque sauce while travelers going to Europe aboard American airlines can savour rosemaray scented shrimp and lemon rice an artichokes among other fabulous and healthy fare. And, to top it all off these airlines and Delta are pairing their repaste with select wines and trendy cocktails including “Mile High” mojitos from Rande Gerber’s signature cocktail menu.

In fact, Delta is taking customer satisfaction to coach class as well with the help of top chef Todd English who was asked to design some free-based coach comestibles. However, some passengers have not been pleased with the “progress”. Airline meals need to be prepared cafeteria style, often well in advance of flight, and some though even these gourmet upgrades tasted “stale”. The airlines are currently looking into making further improvements to their meals.

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