Alaska Airlines Expands Hot Meal Menu Offerings in Main Cabin

On May 22, 2024, Seattle-based Alaska Airlines announced an exciting new initiative aimed at enhancing the passenger experience by reintroducing hot meals available for purchase in the Main Cabin. Previously, this luxury was reserved only for business class passengers. The move comes as part of the airline's effort to elevate its onboard dining options and respond to passenger demand.

Customer-Centric Approach

Alaska Airlines' decision to bring back hot meals in the Main Cabin stems from the success of its industry-leading food and beverage pre-order program, which allows passengers to select their meals before takeoff. The airline prides itself on offering more dining choices on domestic flights than any other U.S. carrier. Starting today, passengers on flights exceeding 1,100 miles can enjoy a selection of chef-curated hot meal options, alongside the airline’s popular cold offerings like the signature fruit and cheese platter.

Program Specifics

The new hot meal program includes four key options:

• Carnitas Breakfast Bowl
• Monte Cristo Breakfast Sandwich

• Panang Curry Chicken
• Pretzel Roll Sliders with Chips

Passengers can view the available meal options for their specific flights on the airline’s website or mobile app. Hot meals are available for pre-order purchases between two weeks and 20 hours before departure. Additionally, passengers using select Alaska Airlines credit cards can receive up to 20% back in statement credits for their meal purchases.

British Chef Tony Wright, who has collaborated with Alaska Airlines’ catering service, LSG Sky Chefs, curated the new menu. His inspiration for the new additions comes from West Coast cuisine, promising a delightful culinary experience onboard.

Responding to Passenger Demand

For years, Alaska Airlines passengers have requested an upgrade to the inflight meal offerings in the Main Cabin. Over the past year, the airline has worked diligently to bring this request to fruition. Todd Traynor-Corey, Alaska Airlines’ Managing Director for Guest Products, expressed excitement about the program launch:

"We're known for an inflight menu that is more thoughtfully curated with care. For a while now, our guests have often asked us if we're ever going to bring back hot meals in the Main Cabin."

The airline had kept plans for reintroducing hot meals relatively secret, making today’s announcement a pleasant surprise for many. Whether seated in premium cabins or standard economy, passengers can now enjoy Chef Tony’s gourmet, West Coast-inspired meals, adding a touch of luxury to their inflight experience.