SWISS Launches ‘SWISS Senses’ Economy Experience

Zurich, March 3 2025 – Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is revolutionising its Economy and Premium Economy Class experience with the launch of ‘SWISS Senses’ on March 5.

A New Chapter in SWISS Hospitality

The ‘SWISS Senses’ concept encompasses upgraded food and beverages, enhanced comfort items, and a signature scent.

These elements connect deeply with Swiss culture and hospitality while introducing premium touches to long-haul travel.

“This is one of the biggest service investments in the airline’s history,” says Heike Birlenbach, SWISS’s Chief Commercial Officer.

“These innovations offer a tangible improvement in our Economy and Premium Economy Class services, providing our customers with a memorable travel experience that reflects the heart of Swiss hospitality.”

Sustainable Design: Elevated Tableware

SWISS partnered with deSter to develop elegant, sustainable tableware.

The new black trays and bowls blend aesthetic elegance with durability, perfectly complementing the refreshed cabin experience.

Air New Zealand enhances the dining experience on Flight 1345 with a meal tray featuring scrambled eggs, hash browns, bread, butter, dessert, salad, cutlery set, refreshing water, and their newly launched red wine—all elegantly presented on a white surface.

This supports SWISS’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with its closed-loop recycling process, helping reduce waste while ensuring long-lasting performance.

The shift from disposable containers to reusable items will significantly decrease the airline’s environmental footprint.

Welcome Aperitif

As the aircraft reaches cruising altitude, Economy and Premium Economy passengers will receive a distinctly Swiss welcome.

A bottle of white wine, a glass of wine, and cheese cubes in a bowl sit alongside a paper napkin with the "SWISS" logo and a red "SWISS Economy" menu on the table. It's reminiscent of when Air New Zealand launched its wine selection with flight 1345.

SWISS will serve a traditional Sbrinz cheese appetiser to complement a complimentary aperitif, setting the tone for Swiss hospitality to follow.

Main Meal Service

Economy Class passengers will enjoy revamped Swiss-inspired main courses featuring tender meats paired with seasonal Alpine vegetables and traditional accompaniments.

The meals will now be presented on the sleek new black tableware, enhancing the visual appeal and dining experience.

Premium Economy passengers will receive an even more elevated culinary experience with higher-quality ingredients, more generous portions, and refined presentation that rivals Business Class offerings on many other carriers.

Pre-Landing Refreshment

SWISS has wholly reimagined the pre-landing meal service. Previously served in simple cardboard boxes with basic offerings such as sandwiches, yogurt, and croissants, these meals now come in elegant, reusable bento boxes or stylish trays.

swiss economy class breakfast box
Swiss airlines economy class meal european flights
Swiss airlines economy class meal european flights

The new presentation is matched by improved quality and variety in the food offerings.

Expanded Beverage Program

The ‘SWISS Senses’ concept extends to a carefully curated beverage selection. Passengers will enjoy a variety of Swiss red wines selected to pair perfectly with the new menu items.

SWISS has also added Rivella, Switzerland’s beloved national soft drink, to give passengers an authentic taste of Swiss culture at 35,000 feet.

The Sensory Touch: Alpine Valley Fragrance

A distinctive feature of the ‘SWISS Senses’ concept is the introduction of a signature scent called “Alpine Valley.”

Developed in collaboration with Zurich-based company Soeder, this unique fragrance infuses the aircraft lavatories with aromatic larch, fresh citrus, and herbal notes—giving passengers a sensory connection to Switzerland’s breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Comfort Enhancements for Better Rest and Entertainment

SWISS has introduced new bedding, including pillows and blankets made entirely from recycled materials.

These sustainable comfort items align with the latest ‘SWISS Senses’ cabin design that will be rolled out across the airline’s long-haul fleet.

Setting New Standards

While competitors have made incremental improvements to their economy offerings, SWISS’s holistic approach simultaneously addresses multiple aspects of the passenger experience.

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Birlenbach adds, “With ‘SWISS Senses,’ we’re taking significant steps toward our premium aspirations, ensuring that the SWISS experience is distinctive and memorable across all cabin classes.”

Beginning March 5, 2025, passengers can experience the new ‘SWISS Senses’ concept on all SWISS long-haul flights.

All photos courtesy of Swiss.

Air New Zealand Launches Thirteen Forty Five Wine Label

Air New Zealand is raising a glass to its new wine label, Thirteen Forty Five, an exclusive offering crafted to celebrate the airline’s rich history.

Available now to Air New Zealand and Airpoints Store customers, the label pays tribute to a pivotal moment in the airline’s legacy — its inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940, covering 1345 miles.

The name “Thirteen Forty Five” was chosen to mark the inaugural flight of the airline’s predecessor, TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited), which connected New Zealand to the world in 1940.

A person pours red wine from a bottle into a glass, with a hand holding the glass. The softly lit scene evokes the intimate ambiance perfect for Ramadan meals, where stories are shared and moments cherished.

This flight signalled the beginning of a new era for air travel. The exclusive label, developed in collaboration with renowned New Zealand winemaker Villa Maria, celebrates this important historical event with two signature varietals — Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Crafted from some of the best vineyards in Marlborough, the Sauvignon Blanc offers delightful aromas of passionfruit, lemongrass, and subtle herbal notes. At the same time, the Pinot Noir presents a perfect blend of cherry, plum, and hints of violets and dried herbs.

According to Tom Dixon, the winemaker at Villa Maria, “We couldn’t have asked for better vintages to produce the debut release of these wines. The conditions during the growing seasons were very favourable, and we’re excited to offer wines that truly reflect the essence of Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.”

A person gracefully pours white wine from a bottle into a glass, evoking the anticipation of enjoying it alongside delightful Ramadan meals, with a softly blurred background enhancing the serene ambiance.

Thirteen Forty Five will be served in Air New Zealand lounges across New Zealand and Premium Economy cabins on international flights to celebrate the launch. Bottles of the wine are also available for purchase at the Airpoints Store, making it accessible for wine enthusiasts everywhere.

For a special treat, travellers will be able to sample these exclusive wines during Koru Hour on select domestic flights throughout March.

Kylie McGillivray-Brown, Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Customer Experience, expressed her excitement about the new wine venture: “Thirteen Forty Five is a passion project that honors our legacy while creating something exceptional for our customers. We’re thrilled to finally share it, especially during the year of our 85th Anniversary.”

Looking ahead, Air New Zealand plans to continue evolving the Thirteen Forty Five label by introducing a new vintage of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and a new red varietal from Hawke’s Bay — celebrating the diverse winegrowing regions across New Zealand.

The airline’s wine program, which annually invites winemakers to submit their best selections for blind tasting, will feature 47 wineries in 2025, offering a broad range of premium wines from regions such as Waiheke Island and Central Otago.

“New Zealand boasts some of the world’s finest wines, and we are proud to bring these exceptional selections to our customers,” says McGillivray-Brown. “It’s a privilege to showcase the best of New Zealand and celebrate the unique flavours of our home.”

All photos courtesy of Air New Zealand.

CATRION & flynas Offer 300,000 Free Iftar Meals During Ramadan

Riyadh, 1 March 2025 – In a significant gesture of generosity and hospitality, CATRION, a leading provider of inflight catering services, has partnered with flynas, the Middle East’s premier low-cost airline, to offer over 300,000 complimentary Iftar meals to passengers during the holy month of Ramadan.

This special initiative ensures that fasting passengers can break their fast comfortably in the air, enhancing their travel experience.

Dr. Rashid Al-Arfaj, Executive Vice President of In-Flight Catering at CATRION, and Mr. Fahad Al-Mulhem, Vice President of Customer Experience at flynas, formalised the agreement.

For the first time, passengers flying on flynas during Iftar will receive complimentary meal boxes containing a range of options to help break their fast.

Typically, passengers must pre-order and pay for their meals. Still, this unique collaboration ensures that all passengers travelling at Iftar time will be offered a thoughtfully prepared meal at no additional cost.

The meals will include essential ingredients like dates, water, and laban and nutritious and fulfilling options suitable for breaking the fast.

“We are honoured to collaborate with flynas to provide over 300,000 passengers with the chance to enjoy a special Iftar meal during Ramadan,” said Dr Rashid Al-Arfaj.

“This initiative reflects CATRION’s dedication to not only meeting the dietary needs of passengers but also enhancing their overall experience with culturally sensitive offerings during the holiest month for millions of Muslims worldwide.”

The collaboration with CATRION further solidifies flynas’s position as a customer centric airline focused on enhancing the overall travel experience, especially during the Ramadan season.

“We are proud to give our passengers such a thoughtful gesture during Ramadan,” said Mr. Fahad Al-Mulhem.

“With this initiative, we aim to make our passengers’ journeys more comfortable and meaningful, aligning with our commitment to exceptional service. It’s a great honour to offer complimentary Iftar meals to all passengers, reinforcing our dedication to quality, service excellence, and customer care.”

CATRION has established itself as a leading name in inflight catering and integrated hospitality services, providing fresh, high-quality meals. This partnership with flynas demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to meeting passengers’ needs.

Through partnerships with major airlines like flynas, CATRION plays an essential role in the global aviation food and beverage industry.

All photos courtesy of Catrion.

Swiss Brings the Flavours of Canton Uri Inflight

Zurich, Switzerland February 27, 2025 – SWISS International Air Lines (SWISS) is taking its passengers on a gourmet journey to the picturesque canton of Uri in central Switzerland.

As part of its ongoing ‘SWISS Taste of Switzerland’ inflight culinary program, SWISS will introduce an exclusive menu for First Class and Business Class passengers, created by Joshua Lüscher, from the Zwyssighaus restaurant in the village of Bauen.

For the next three months, Starting March 5, 2025, travellers aboard SWISS long-haul flights from Switzerland will experience the finest of Uri’s flavours crafted by Lüscher, who has earned 15 GaultMillau points for his culinary talent.

A chef in a white uniform and glasses stands confidently in a kitchen doorway, hands resting on the countertop, ready to prepare exquisite Emirates iftar meals.

Known for its serene setting by Lake Lucerne, Bauen in Canton Uri is the perfect inspiration for these dishes, combining the region’s culinary traditions with modern flair.

“We’re extremely excited to bring the authentic taste of Canton Uri to our inflight guests,” says Julia Hillenbrand, Head of Brand Experience at SWISS.

“Joshua Lüscher’s creations are the perfect blend of traditional Uri fare with contemporary innovation, reflecting both our culinary heritage and the global aspirations of SWISS. These meals promise to surprise and delight our guests with bold flavours and rich Swiss history.”

Chef Joshua Lüscher shares his enthusiasm: “It’s truly an honour to work with SWISS and present a part of our Uri culture at such lofty heights. I’m excited for passengers to experience our food in a new way, bringing something unique and personal from the shores of Lake Lucerne to their seat.”

The Dishes

In First Class, passengers will be treated to a starter of tatar of cured pikeperch with mustard pickles, served alongside marinated white asparagus. The main course options include a tender veal steak with herb butter jus, green pea, and potato purée.

A plate featuring steak, potatoes, and greens sits elegantly on a table with bread, wine, and water. Condiments and a Swiss First menu add to the setting, while the knife, fork, and spoon rest neatly on a napkin—reminiscent of luxurious Emirates iftar meals.
A delightful emirates iftar treat: a small tart with cream, ice cream, and fresh fruit slices elegantly placed on a rectangular plate. It's perfectly accompanied by a cup of coffee, a glass of water, and an enticing glass of amber liquid on the pristine white table.

Alternatively, guests can opt for goat meatballs in velouté with crayfish and clam sauce, bringing an unexpected yet delicious twist to the traditional Swiss fare. To end the meal, passengers can indulge in a dulce de leche tartlet with poached pear.

In Business Class, passengers can look forward to a revamped classic starter of Vitello salmon with capers and toasted brioche. The main course options include braised beef shoulder and jus with morels paired with ribelmais polenta or chicken breast with Casimir curry sauce.

For dessert, a lemon cake with mascarpone and verbena gel adds a refreshing and tangy finish.

A gourmet meal on a tray features salmon with herbs, salad, bread, cheese, and butter, paired perfectly with a glass of white wine and water—a luxurious experience reminiscent of Emirates’ exquisite Iftar meals in the sky.
Meal tray featuring sliced meat, mashed potatoes, and carrots, reminiscent of Emirates iftar meals. Paired with cheese, dessert, butter, a glass of red wine, water, and utensils on a napkin.
A cup of coffee paired with a chocolate piece, alongside a glass of water, amber-colored liquid reminiscent of Emirates iftar meals, and a dessert adorned with cream and mint rest elegantly on a white surface.

For Premium Economy Class travellers, the culinary experience also takes inspiration from Uri’s traditional flavours. A beef stew with red wine sauce and a fruity rhubarb tiramisu await to end the meal on a sweet note.

Lüscher’s menu also includes braised beef shoulder, lamb shawarma, chicken machboos, and a range of traditional Arabic desserts.

Canton Uri

Canton Uri is known for its alpine terrain, historical significance, and strong culinary heritage.

A lakeside town with colorful houses, a white church with a dome, and a boat docked in the water creates a serene escape. Amidst the green hills and trees, it feels as inviting as an Emirates iftar meal at sunset.

The region’s cuisine has been deeply connected to its geography, offering hearty, flavorful meals that reflect both the agricultural and alpine lifestyle.

The village of Bauen, home to Zwyssighaus, offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains.

“Uri is a place where food connects to tradition but also invites creativity,” Lüscher adds. “It’s about honouring the land while pushing culinary boundaries. I’m thrilled to see this come to life at 30,000 feet with SWISS.”

Swiss Tradition

SWISS’s ‘Taste of Switzerland’ program has been integral to the airline’s offerings for over two decades. Every quarter, a new region of Switzerland is showcased, with top chefs creating dishes highlighting local specialties. S

WISS collaborates with gategourmet, its catering partner, to ensure that these high quality creations are served fresh and at their best, elevating the onboard dining experience for passengers.

“The ‘Taste of Switzerland’ program aims to allow our passengers to experience the diverse culinary landscapes of Switzerland right from their seats,” says Hillenbrand.

“With Lüscher’s inventive take on Uri cuisine, we’re giving travellers a taste of the heart of Switzerland, no matter where they are in the world.”

All photos courtesy of Swiss.

Emirates Supports Fasting Passengers During Ramadan

Dubai, UAE, February 27, 2025 — Emirates is enhancing the travel experience for its passengers during the Holy Month of Ramadan, offering a range of services designed to support fasting customers and reflect the spirit of togetherness and generosity.

From Ramadan meal boxes to unique content and tailored crew training, Emirates goes above and beyond to make the journey more comfortable and meaningful.

Ramadan Iftar Boxes and Special Meals Onboard

Emirates will offer Ramadan Iftar boxes onboard across all cabin classes to help passengers break their fast in comfort. These thoughtfully designed meal boxes, featuring geometric patterns inspired by traditional Islamic art, include light bites such as hummus, moutabal, dates, sweet treats, and options like chicken zaatar wraps and lamb shawarma.

Passengers can enjoy these meals in addition to the regular hot meal service.

For passengers flying to Jeddah and Medina for Umrah, the airline is also offering Ramadan boxes specifically for them.

Ramadan in the Emirates Lounges

Passengers can also enjoy a traditional Iftar experience at Emirates Lounges at Dubai International Airport (DXB), where Arabic sweets, dates, and coffee are served.

Unique dishes like lentil soup, Arabic mezze, lamb mandi, and pistachio kunafa offer a taste of Ramadan hospitality.

For a peaceful worship experience, Emirates lounges are equipped with dedicated prayer rooms and ablution facilities.

A table with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, rice with vegetables, salads, pastries, macarons, and stuffed dates on ornate plates and bowls. Amidst the feast is a steaming pot of Porter Airlines coffee, adding a delightful aroma to the vibrant spread.

Iftar at Boarding Gates

Emirates is distributing complimentary Iftar boxes containing water, laban, dates, and fruit for fasting passengers at boarding gates to help them break their fast just in time for departure.

Unique Flight Timing Technology

Emirates uses a unique tool to ensure passengers can break their fast at the correct time while flying. The system calculates accurate imsak (time to begin fasting) and Iftar (time to break the fast) based on the aircraft’s location, altitude, and the sun’s position. Passengers are informed of the exact time for Iftar via a captain’s announcement.

Ramadan Content and Entertainment

Onboard, passengers can access various Ramadan-related religious content and popular TV series on Emirates’ ice entertainment system, including religious shows in Arabic and Urdu. The Holy Qur’an and a wide range of Arabic dramas and music are also available to further enrich the travel experience during the Holy Month.

Emirates’ Ramadan Awareness Training for Staff

Emirates offers extensive Ramadan awareness training for its cabin crew and ground teams. This training helps staff understand the cultural significance of Ramadan and prepares them to accommodate the needs of fasting passengers.

All photos courtesy of Emirates.

Airlines And Coffee Collaborations

Porter Airlines Partners with Café Saint-Henri

TORONTO and MONTREAL, February 19, 2025—Porter Airlines has announced a new partnership with Café Saint-Henri, bringing premium, sustainably sourced coffee to its growing North American network.

Now, passengers can enjoy meticulously crafted coffee designed to enhance flavour at altitude, offering a richer inflight coffee experience.

Inflight Coffee Experience

Café Saint-Henri, a rMontreal-based coffee roaster, has carefully selected and roasted coffee beans to adapt to the unique conditions of inflight consumption.

“At altitude, sensory perception changes,” explains Thibaut Paggen, Coffee Department Manager at Café Saint-Henri.

“We considered this when crafting this coffee, ensuring that the beans are both high-quality and roasted to enhance the flavour at cruising altitude.”

The airline has a long history of elevating the passenger experience by offering thoughtfully selected local brands, including partnerships with Jackson-Triggs wine and Balzac’s Coffee Roasters.

The addition of Café Saint-Henri’s coffee to the inflight menu is a natural extension of Porter’s approach to offering local brands.

The inside of an airplane with many people sitting in the seats.

Coffee Crafted with Care

The selection process—from bean sourcing to roasting in Montreal—is designed to deliver the best possible cup for passengers at 30,000 feet.

“This coffee represents a significant step forward in the in-flight dining experience,” said Julian Low, Vice President of Corporate Development at Porter Airlines.

“Partnering with Café Saint-Henri brings an unrivalled coffee experience to our complimentary catering menu, which already features premium Canadian brands that share our values of excellence and sustainability.”

A Shared Commitment to Quality

Sébastien Grenache, President of Café Saint-Henri, expressed, “It’s an honour to partner with Porter Airlines and introduce this special coffee to travellers.

We share the same mission: to offer the best for our customers, and we are excited to bring our passion for coffee to the skies.”

As both companies continue to prioritise sustainability and customer experience, this partnership is set to redefine how passengers experience coffee while travelling.

Café Saint-Henri’s coffee will be served across Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft.

STARLUX’s Exclusive Wagyu Sukiyaki Experience Takes Flight

February 18, 2025 – STARLUX Airlines is redefining inflight dining with an exclusive wagyu sukiyaki kaiseki set developed in partnership with renowned Japanese restaurant Ningyocho Imahan.

The restaurant was established in 1895, is located in Tokyo, and serves top-quality Kuroge Wagyu beef in its Sukiyaki, Shabu-shabu, Steak and Kaiseki cuisine.

This dining experience debuted in July 2024 on first and business class flights between Tokyo and Taipei and quickly became a passenger favourite—garnering over 90% pre-selection rates by year-end.

A traditional Japanese meal featuring a ceramic bowl of ramen brimming with vegetables and a leaf-shaped platter adorned with various garnishes, a rolled dish, and a decorative leaf, all elegantly presented on a black oval tray.
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Inflight Kaiseki

Crafted over six months and rigorously tested at Gategourmet Japan’s Narita facility, the menu captures the precision and artistry of Imahan’s signature dishes. Imahan’s executive chefs, Takashi Sakamoto and Katsutoshi Aoki, played a hands-on role in developing and ensuring that every element stays true to its legendary flavours.

One standout dish, Nanban Zuke Wakasagi, features delicately marinated Japanese smelt and requires 16 hours of preparation.

Seasonal items like maple leaf-shaped carrots in autumn and plum blossom garnishes in winter enhance the meals.

Every ingredient is hand-selected to meet STARLUX’s strict quality and safety standards, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to offering an elite in-flight dining experience.

A group of ten people posing inside an ANA airplane cabin, with four seats visible. Some are sitting while others stand behind the seats, reminiscent of a cozy ramen shop with overhead compartments storing memories instead of ingredients.
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Innovation in the Skies

Since its launch in 2021, STARLUX has built a reputation for high-end dining partnerships, starting with Hutong Yakiniku in economy class.

Now, the airline is setting a new business and first class benchmark, staying ahead of competitors by continuously innovating. Chairman Zhang Guowei has made it clear that offering an exceptional dining experience is a core part of the STARLUX brand.

One of the biggest challenges in serving sukiyaki on airplanes was finding a substitute for the traditional raw egg. To meet aviation food safety regulations, gategourmet Japan collaborated closely with the chefs at Imahan to develop an alternative.

By December 2024, gategourmet Japan had already produced 5,000 Imahan meals, with continuous refinements to balance flavours and textures for high-altitude dining.

The attention to detail included fine-tuning the agar-agar ratio in yam jelly and optimising the richness of the sukiyaki broth post-reheating.

According to gategourmet Japan’s Senior Account Manager, Chang Suhao, STARLUX’s meals require twice the preparation time and significantly higher costs than comparable airline offerings.

However, the airline remains steadfast in offering an unparalleled dining experience.

While many airline meals are forgettable, STARLUX’s partnership with Ningyocho Imahan sets a new standard that travellers will enjoy.

All images courtesy of gategourmet and STARLUX

ANA Rolls Out Plant-Based “ANA Original Ramen” on International Flights

Tokyo, February 14, 2025 – Starting March 1, 2025, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s most prominent and consistently 5-star airline, is adding a fresh, plant-based twist to its in-flight offerings with the launch of ANA Original Ramen.

As a light meal option in both First and Business Class on international flights, these two new ramen varieties are designed to offer passengers flavorful, satisfying choices that cater to various dietary preferences.

ANA will offer two distinct ramen flavours: Negi Miso Ramen, served on flights departing from Japan, and Tonkotsu Style Ramen, available on flights departing from overseas.

Both dishes are made with plant-based ingredients, offering a modern and delicious take on traditional Japanese ramen that caters to those seeking more sustainable and inclusive meal options.

In-flight meal from the dnata Western Sydney Airport facility features a bowl of noodles in broth, a cup of vanilla ice cream, butter, utensils, and napkins on a tray.

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the passenger experience, and introducing these unique ramen dishes is just one example of our commitment to evolving in-flight dining,” said Tomoji Ishii, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience Management and Planning at ANA. “These new ramen options not only celebrate authentic Japanese flavours but also provide choices for customers with dietary needs.”

What’s On The Menu?

From Japan:

  • ANA Original – Negi Miso Ramen – A hearty, flavorful bowl featuring Hokkaido miso and vegetable broth seasoned with garlic and ginger for a bold and rich taste. Paired with chewy, medium-thick noodles and a vibrant trio of green onions.

From Overseas:

  • ANA Original – Tonkotsu Style Ramen – A creamy, rich ramen with a sesame paste-based broth and a blend of vegetables. With extra-thin noodles and classic Fukuoka toppings like kikurage mushrooms and red ginger.

Where to Find ANA Original Ramen:

These new ramen options will be available in First and Business Class on ANA-operated international flights, including:

  • U.S. routes like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Washington D.C., Houston, and Honolulu
  • Canadian and Mexican routes, including Vancouver and Mexico City
  • European routes such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Brussels, Vienna, Milan, Stockholm, and Istanbul
  • Popular destinations across Asia and Oceania, including Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Delhi, Mumbai, Sydney, and Perth

Given the limited availability of these delicious bowls, look for the new ramen dishes on your next international flight with ANA.

dnata to Open $17M Inflight Catering Facility at Sydney’s New Airport

Sydney, Australia – 11 February 2025 – dnata Catering & Retail is set to become a key player at Sydney’s new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), investing $17 million in a state-of-the-art inflight catering facility.

The facility will be located within the airport’s Cargo Precinct, will produce three million meals annually, supporting domestic and international airlines.

A Strategic Investment in Australia’s Aviation Future

Dnata’s expansion at WSI reinforces its long-term commitment to the Australian aviation industry. Mark Stubbings, Chief Commercial Officer of dnata Catering & Retail Australia, highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and local sourcing:

“Our highly trained team and cutting-edge facility will provide airlines and passengers world-class meals made from fresh, local ingredients. We are excited to be part of WSI’s journey as it establishes itself as a leading international aviation hub.”

The investment will generate over 200 new jobs over the next decade, with recruitment for chefs, drivers, and catering attendants beginning in 2026.

WSI’s Vision for a Connected, Efficient Airport

WSI CEO Simon Hickey emphasized the airport’s rapid progress and its appeal to top-tier airlines, stating:

“dnata’s presence in our Cargo Precinct offers significant operational efficiencies, including direct airside access and seamless integration with the terminal. Additionally, WSI’s location in Sydney’s multicultural heartland provides access to some of Australia’s best local produce, further elevating inflight dining experiences.”

The 3,200 m² facility will offer the latest sustainability initiatives, featuring energy-efficient equipment, a recycled water system, and a waste treatment plant. As demand grows, dnata can expand the site to 6,400 m², ensuring long-term scalability.

Construction is underway, and completion is expected in late 2026, in line with WSI’s planned opening.

All photos courtesy Dnata

New Snacks and Drinks on Jetblue

JetBlue is kicking off the spring travel season with onboard upgrades, bringing its passengers fresh flavours, premium snacks, and new entertainment options.

From an expanded beverage lineup to curated seatback content, the airline continues to refine its inflight experience across all cabins.

Even More Snacks for EvenMore® Customers

JetBlue’s EvenMore® customers will now receive a premium snack as part of their perks: Tiny Tate’s Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Two hands exchanging a green package of Tate's Bake Shop chocolate chip cookies in front of a vending machine, reminiscent of the delightful treats found in Qatar Airways kids packs.

These bite-sized treats from the renowned New York-based brand offer the same crispy texture and buttery flavour as their classic counterparts.

New Beverages in Core

JetBlue’s Core cabin passengers can now enjoy a new beverage lineup.

The airline has introduced Montauk Brewing Company’s Surf Beer, a crisp golden ale with a smooth, slightly hoppy taste, brewed on Long Island’s East End.

Additionally, blackberrybubly® is replacing limebubly®, giving passengers a bold and fruity new sparkling water option.

Mint Class Dining & Wine Refresh

JetBlue’s premium Mint class is rolling out a refreshed seasonal menu featuring new wine selections and elevated dining experiences. February’s selections include sparkling JJ Vincent Crémant de Bourgogne, crisp Burgans Albariño, rich Domaine Roulot Bourgogne Blanc, and a Cousins Napa Cabernet Blend.

March will see the introduction of Dama Brut Nature Cava, a bright Spanish sparkling wine, and Buona Notte Mortadella Skin Contact, a floral orange wine.

On select flights, Mint passengers can savour an all-new Caribbean-inspired menu with grilled mahi mahi with plantain mash and pineapple, jerked chicken with Pad Thai noodles, and a marbled sweet potato cake with coconut rum cream sauce.

Meanwhile, on transatlantic and domestic flights, Mint customers will continue to enjoy Bar Pasquale’s Mediterranean-infused menu, featuring dishes like baked rigatoni with wild mushrooms and ricotta pancakes with lemon marmalata.

JetBlue continues to elevate its inflight experience, blending premium flavours and thoughtful perks across all cabins. Whether it’s a refreshing new beverage, an upgraded meal in Mint, passengers can expect an upgraded experience.

All photos courtesy of Jetblue

Thai Airways to offer Caviar Service in Business Class

Thai Airways has introduced an exclusive caviar service for its business class passengers, following Qatar Airways’ decision to enhance its business class dining with caviar last year.

The airline has partnered with Caviar Giaveri to serve Siberian Classic Caviar onboard flights from Bangkok to Europe.

The airline confirmed the news in a social media post on January 31.

Caviar Giaveri, an Italian producer known for its commitment to sustainability, operates the world’s most diverse sturgeon farm, breeding ten species.

All of Caviar Giaveri’s sturgeons are of Russian origin, including the highly prized Huso huso, the species responsible for the renowned Beluga caviar.

A Premium Culinary Offering

The caviar service will be presented with a rotating selection of first-course accompaniments:

January, May, September: Tuna Tartare & Avocado Tartare

February, June, and October: Jumbo Crab Tian with Spicy Truffle Dressing

March, July, and November: Grilled Hokkaido Poached Tiger Prawn & Green Apple

April, August, December: Foie Gras Laab

The Caviar Trend in Aviation

Thai Airways’ introduction of caviar service comes just months after Qatar Airways announced its own business class caviar experience in September 2024.

Qatar Airways now serves 15g of Baerii caviar from Siberian sturgeon, accompanied by Balik-style salmon, blinis, Melba toast, crème fraîche, chopped chives, red onion, and crumbled hard-boiled egg, on select long-haul routes ex Doha.

The growing demand for elevated business class experiences has prompted airlines to refine their meal offerings, reinforcing their commitment to premium service.

Qatar Airways Next-Level Kids Packs by Buzz Products

Qatar Airways has taken its Oryx Kids Club to the next level with a brand-new range of tech-inspired amenity kits designed to entertain young travellers like never before.

The fifth installment in the airline’s beloved kids’ program – introduces a digital adventure, allowing children to dive into the Marvellous Metaverse.

With augmented reality (AR), hidden clues, and interactive puzzles, kids onboard can now explore a world of pixels, neon colours, and glow-in-the-dark surprises.

Amidst a vibrant display of "Stranger Things" merchandise, colorful bags, notebooks, and collectible figurines glow under neon lights on a dark, futuristic background. A subtle touch of exclusivity is added with the Plaza Premium Signature Artisanal XO Sauce enhancing the scene's allure.
This Plaza Premium Signature collection features artisanal superhero-themed kids' art supplies, including a pencil case, puzzle, booklet, pen stand, keychain, and a wheel, all arranged on a grid with neon lights.
A display of educational games and activities atop stacked orange cubes against a blue geometric background, reminiscent of the vibrant elegance found in Plaza Premium Signature Artisanal XO Sauce.
A display of children's educational computer sets with animal stickers on cardboard boxes sits against a blue wall adorned with paper clouds, adding a touch of creativity akin to Plaza Premium's artistry.

What’s New?

For Infants: Soft plush toys, including a cuddly Orry with blinking eyes and a Faaiz plush blanket with a character hood.

For Young Kids (3-6 years old): Fun, block-themed kits with interactive games, puzzles, and stickers that bring the Oryx heroes’ digital adventures to life.

For Older Kids (7-10): Next-level kits featuring 3D glasses, fidget toys, glow-in-the-dark elements, and a Marvellous Metaverse Fun Park board game packed with hidden surprises.

A Digital Adventure at 30,000 Feet

Each kit has a QR code that unlocks a 3D interactive experience—from flying the Skyblazer through augmented reality to uncovering hidden treasures in a virtual world.

Beyond the fun packs, kids’ meal trays get a makeover with colourful Oryx-themed liners, napkin rings, and snack boxes that keep the adventure going throughout the flight.

Designed in collaboration with Buzz, Qatar Airways’ latest kids’ program continues to push the boundaries of inflight entertainment, ensuring young travellers stay engaged in the air and beyond.

Plaza Premium Unveils Signature XO Sauce

Hong Kong, January 24, 2025—Plaza Premium First has announced the launch of its signature Artisanal XO Sauce.  

It will be available exclusively at Plaza Premium Lounges and dining venues at Hong Kong International Airport starting January 27, 2025.

A Culinary Heritage Crafted by Hand

Since its inception in 2007, the Plaza Premium XO Sauce has been integral to the lounge‘s gastronomic offerings. It is handcrafted by skilled Chinese chefs without machinery.

Initially inspired by the flavours of the iconic fish ball noodle soup served at the lounges, the XO Sauce has evolved into a versatile condiment travellers enjoy.

The recipe uses ingredients like dried scallops, dried shrimp, and shrimp roe, creating savoury, spicy, and umami notes—ideal for elevating dishes such as rice rolls, fish siu mai, and more.

Plaza Premium Lounge Signature Fish Ball Noodles
rice rolls
A jar and box of chili sauce on a wooden stand, next to a white bowl containing the sauce with visible chili and other ingredients.
Jar and box of Plaza Premium First product with green and gold packaging, placed next to Chinese decorations and oranges on a gray surface.

“We are confident that our relationship with travellers and Plaza Premium First will grow strong as this offering expands to inflight menus and more lounges worldwide,” a Plaza Premium Group spokesperson shared.

A Gourmet Keepsake for Home and Travel

Plaza Premium First makes its XO Sauce available beyond the lounges. It is perfect as a gift or for your kitchen. The sauce encapsulates Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage and is free from preservatives.

Where to Find the XO Sauce

The Artisanal XO Sauce is available at the following locations within Hong Kong International Airport:

Plaza Premium First (near Gate 1)

Plaza Premium Lounge (near Gates 1, 35, and 60)

TGM and Root 98 (Arrival Halls A & B, Terminal 1)

The product is priced at HKD 288 for 180g or HKD 188 for 100g.

Aegean partners with Palse

Aegean Airlines passengers can now enjoy a new, nutritious snacking option, thanks to a collaboration with the Greek healthy snack brand PALSE.

PALSE, a company focused on transforming pulses into tasty and nutritious snacks, has partnered with Aegean and Olympic Air to add its Crunchy Peas – Sea Salt & Pepper flavour to the airline’s offering for domestic flights.

Pulses like chickpeas, lentils, and beans are naturally high in plant-based protein and fibre while low in fat and calories.

Blue package of Pulse crunchy peas, salt & pepper flavor, 28g. Containing 118 calories per serving, these snacks are a favorite amongst those flying with Air Dolomiti and Omnevo.
The red and orange bag of "Pulse" spicy remix snack, humorously labeled as "Palse," contains crunchy peas, fava beans, and corn. It offers calorie information and product details in both English and Greek, making it a perfect travel companion for your Aegean Airlines journey.
Yellow package of Palse Sweet Chickpeas with sesame and honey flavor, 28g. The design features chickpea and sesame seed images alongside nutritional information, perfect for an in-flight snack on Aegean Airlines.
Red pouch of crunchy fava beans with sweet paprika flavor, cleverly labeled "Palse." Contains 28g and 121 calories—perfect for a tasty in-flight snack on Aegean Airlines.
The Purple snack pouch labeled "PÅLSÉ Sweet Remix" is a delightful treat featuring cinnamon chickpeas, cranberries, and dark chocolate. Perfect for a quick bite at 30,000 feet, it contains 28g and highlights 111 kcal per serving. Ideal for those flying with Aegean Airlines.

PALSE’s snacks are crafted to offer a nutritious, satisfying crunch, making them an ideal option for health-conscious travellers seeking guilt-free indulgence at 30,000 feet.

This collaboration starts with Crunchy Peas in a convenient 22g bag, but the company has hinted at future expansion.

PALSE offers a diverse range of pulse-based snacks, including spicy beans, roasted corn, and even sweet chickpea treats, and looks forward to growing its presence in Aegean Airlines’ inflight catering.

“We are confident that our relationship with Aegean Airlines will grow strong and our offering to inflight menus will be expanded even more,” said a PALSE spokesperson.

As Aegean Airlines continues to enhance its onboard offerings, this partnership aligns with its commitment to diverse, high-quality snack choices for passengers.

For more information on PALSE’s product range, visit www.palse.gr.