Delta Airlines is literally taking burgers to a whole new level from December 2024, in a new collaboration with US casual dining phenomenon Shake Shack.
From hot dog cart to First Class dining
Shake Shack started as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Garden in New York in 2001 and has had a remarkable rise to fame over the last 23 years, in a trajectory that has seen the food outlet open the first Shake Shack kiosk in 2004, grow to be twice as profitable by store as McDonald’s, go international in Dubai, and now take to the skies in a world-first.
Shake Shack burgers will initially be rolled out on flights out of Boston, and will be sandwiched into the menu options on other US flights during 2025. First-class ticket holders for long-haul flights will be able to pre-order a Shake Shack burger ahead of time via the Delta app. It’s not the first time Delta has offered burgers among its in-flight food range, but it is the first time the burgers will be made by such a fan favourite.
What makes the Shake Shack burger so special?
Shake Shack burgers feature a 100% Angus beef patty, topped with cheese and served on a toasted potato bun. It’s possible to customize your burger to “create the signature ShackBurger, with toppings like tomato, lettuce and Shake Shack’s famous ShackSauce, all served on the side,” promotional materials say. In addition, the burgers come with chips, a Caesar salad, and a dark chocolate brownie.
“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, Managing Director of Onboard Service.
People and communities first
But it is not only Shake Shack’s commitment to excellent casual dining that has won them a place in people’s hearts and now in the skies, Laster pointed out, adding that “our partnership with Shake Shack goes beyond the burger. Shake Shack’s people-first culture and commitment to enriching their neighbourhoods are spot on with our own brand values of service excellence and helping the communities we serve.”
New York flyers out of JFK will already have experienced hospitality from the Union Square Hospitality Group. Meals from Union Square Events are already available on flights out of New York’s JFK Airport. But New Yorkers are going to have to get ready to share the deliciousness.
“At Shake Shack, we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to meet our guests where they are, even at 35,000 feet,” said Michael Kark, President of Global Licensing at Shake Shack. “Taking our beloved cheeseburger to new heights, Shake Shack is proud to partner with Delta as we elevate the in-flight dining and hospitality experience for travelers across the country.”
