Delta brings Shake Shack burgers to first-class passengers, sparking mixed reviews
- Delta Air Lines and Shake Shack launched a meal partnership for first-class passengers on December 1, 2024.
- Passengers can enjoy Shake Shack's Angus burger, along with a side salad and brownie, while chips replace the traditional fries.
- Social media reactions have been mixed, raising questions about the meal's authenticity and presentation.
The collaboration between Delta Air Lines and Shake Shack officially began on December 1, 2024. This partnership allows first-class passengers to enjoy Shake Shack's Angus burgers while flying. Passengers can pre-select this meal up to seven days before their flight, and it includes additional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, a side Caesar salad, and a brownie, though the typical Shake Shack crinkle fries have been replaced with a bag of chips for convenient dining in flight. This change aims to enhance the in-flight dining experience and has already sparked significant discussion on social media platforms. While some users expressed excitement about the meal, others raised skepticism regarding its authenticity. They questioned whether the burger accurately represented Shake Shack's quality, with one user commenting on its unappealing appearance before adding toppings. Furthermore, there was discussion about the practicality of purchasing the burger in the airport instead of opting for a first-class ticket solely for the meal. This conversation highlighted some passengers' preference for accessing the meal without needing to pay for an entire flight upgrade. Unlike some claims suggesting this is a pioneering collaboration, Shake Shack and Delta had previously partnered back in 2016 for select flights. This historical context underscores that fast-food collaborations within airlines are not new. Experts in the travel industry noted that similar partnerships have happened elsewhere, citing United Airlines' prior collaboration with McDonald's, which had unique measures to properly serve fast food on flights. The reactions on social media have been diverse, with enthusiasts calling for more options in flight catering and critiques targeting the visual presentation of the food offered. Such discourse reveals the strong connection between travelers and their in-flight dining experiences, leading to expectations that align closely with the brand's reputation. As passengers continue to share their thoughts and feedback, the success of this initiative could influence Delta's future collaborations and menu selections for first-class customers.