United Airlines serves viral banana pudding to first class passengers

In a recent partnership, United Airlines introduced a new dessert option for travelers flying on select United First flights. This collaboration with Magnolia Bakery, renowned for its delicious desserts, specifically features the well-loved banana pudding, which has gained iconic status over the years. This offering was made available on flights covering distances greater than 901 miles, highlighting the airline's commitment to enhancing the in-flight dining experience for its customers. According to a joint press release, the dessert will be served frozen-to-thaw in single servings of 3-ounce cups, prepared using real bananas. Bobbie Lloyd, the chief executive officer and chief baking officer of Magnolia Bakery, expressed her excitement about the opportunity to provide travelers with a taste of home while they are thousands of feet in the air, emphasizing how food plays an essential role in travel experiences. Aaron McMillan, United Airlines' managing director of hospitality programs, also commented on the partnership, stating that they aim to elevate onboard dining by collaborating with notable brands like Magnolia. He expressed confidence that passengers would enjoy the iconic dessert at high altitudes, which represents a shift towards offering more variety and better quality food onboard. Interestingly, the collaboration is part of Magnolia Bakery's broader campaign to expand its New York-based treats beyond traditional locations, further evidenced by the recent opening of a bakery outlet at LaGuardia Airport. Additionally, United Airlines' initiative to enhance passenger experiences parallels similar efforts from other airlines, such as Delta Airlines' recent collaboration with Shake Shack to serve burgers in first-class cabins, though that offering has geographical limitations.