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Delta Brings Shake Shack Burgers to First Class Travelers

The first-of-its-kind collaboration between the airline and Shake Shack will offer cheeseburgers on flights departing from Boston

by George Gomez

November 19, 2024

Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

In an unexpected culinary twist, Delta Air Lines is introducing Shake Shack’s iconic burgers in its domestic First Class cabin, promising an improved in-flight dining experience.

Starting December 1, Delta passengers flying out of Boston on routes over 900 miles will be treated to the famous Shake Shack Cheeseburger as part of their pre-select meal options—a first-of-its-kind partnership that will continue rolling out to additional U.S. markets throughout 2025.

Stephanie Laster, Delta’s Managing Director of Onboard Service, described the reasoning behind the bold move: “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. We’re thrilled to elevate the offering with Shake Shack.”

Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

Laster added that the collaboration transcends just food, aligning with Shake Shack’s “people-first culture and commitment to enriching their neighborhoods,” values that are shared by Delta.

Featuring a 100 percent Angus beef patty, cheese, and a toasted potato bun, the meal can be customized into the brand’s signature ShackBurger, with fresh toppings like tomato, lettuce, and their famous ShackSauce served on the side.

Delta says passengers will also be treated to chips, a Caesar salad, and a dark chocolate brownie—a nod to the “Shack Attack” dessert flavors.

Photo: Delta Premium Select. Courtesy of Delta

“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.”

How to Order

First Class passengers on eligible flights must pre-select the Shake Shack Cheeseburger through Delta’s Fly Delta app or via an email link up to 24 hours before their flight, starting seven days before departure.

The partnership between Delta and Shake Shack builds upon Delta’s established relationship with Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) and its founder, Danny Meyer, who also founded Shake Shack.

Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

For Delta, this collaboration isn’t just about food and redefining the overall passenger experience. Delta already offers meals from Union Square Events, USHG’s catering division, on select flights from JFK.

With the holidays fast approaching, Delta is doubling down on premium offerings to enrich the in-flight journey. Alongside this unique Shake Shack venture, the airline is refreshing its seasonal wine program and rolling out new meals and snacks created with award-winning top chefs.

The Airline’s Seasonal Menu

Delta’s new holiday menu features options for Delta One, First Class, and Delta Premium Select cabins. Travelers can also choose these selections instead of the new Shake Shack burger.

The menu highlights include cocoa-braised short ribs served with polenta and Butternut Squash Ravioli in Delta One, created by Union Square Hospitality Group.

Jon & Vinny’s meatballs. Chicken breast, Mashed Potato with savoy Cabbage. Mixed Quinoa salad with lime and cilantro, roasted sweet potato. Three Cheese Manicotti. Spring Mix Salad w/ Monte Vibiano Balsamic Dressing. Cut Fruits. Bell’s Chocolate Chunk Cookie. Tiramisu. Photo: Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

On flights to Paris, Chef Guy Martin offers braised beef with red wine sauce, while domestic First Class passengers can enjoy braised meatballs from Jon & Vinny’s or chilled roasted chicken salad from Chef Mashama Bailey.

Breakfast options range from bacon and eggs to pecan granola. Meals can be pre-selected up to seven days before departure.