Anybody over 30 probably heard stories from their parents and grandparents about the gold old days when the journey by plane was as exciting as the destination. Even when the aviation industry became democratized in the early 1970s with the arrival of budget airlines and the onboard class system, it held a certain magic to it.
… Then life happened when consumers were making other travel plans. The emphasis shifted from customer service to the bottom line. This is why when an airline considers an upgrade to the general economy experience in some way, it makes news. Santiago-based LATAM, which serves Latin America to and from North America, Australia, and Europe, spent a good part of 2017 making a major splash in its development, creation and implementation of economy-cabin food service for long-haul travel (seven hours or longer), complete with a menu, three selections, healthier kids’ fare and even some snazzy improvements to the in-flight food tray.
Some may argue this carefully plotted and planned program is a wonderful throwback to the days where eating in flight was fun and the food a bit fresher. Others may say it could be a standard bearer for other airlines to follow in winning back customers. Regardless, the development of the new program has been a fascinating journey for the carrier.
When the rollout was fully completed in November 2017, LATAM invited a select group of travel industry players and journalists to celebrate with an exclusive tour of the airline’s headquarters followed by a luncheon that featured eight of the 300 new dishes the airline estimated would serve an average 4,000 passengers on 64 flights each day. Claudie Sender, senior vice president clients, LATAM Airlines Group, noted the program was developed over 16 months in collaboration with catering professionals at Gategroup Innovation Centre in Amsterdam. Naturally, several in-flight test meal services followed, based on passenger feedback.
The final product — offered to all economy passengers at no extra charge — is truly a “less-is-more” proposition, with one generous meal plate, roll and dessert replacing the five or six mini portions. The menu includes a choice of a hot meal with meat or fish, a vegetarian option and a cold selection akin to a salad one may order in a higher-end fast casual restaurant (think smoked chicken or salmon with crisp vegetables), along with a sweet native to Chile, Peru, Argentina or another South American country.
During the official launch event, guests got to sample a salmon dish, a beef brisket with corn pudding and asparagus, and spinach-ricotta cannelloni with saffron sauce. However, the ultimate proof of the concept working on board needed to be in the pudding. From what I could taste on the two flights from Santiago to Lima, Peru, and back to Los Angeles, the realization overall was impressive … and truth be told, the economy-class pasta dish was actually tastier than its business-class counterpart served on the inbound flight to Chile. And while LATAM’s business-class pods were pretty plush, the economy seats were as roomy as premium economy seats on other carriers.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Nov 7, 2024Velas Vallarta: The Perfect Family Stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Family travelers looking for the ultimate escape in Puerto Vallarta should consider booking a stay at Velas Vallarta. Located directly on the beaches of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta offers a luxury all-inclusive experience in one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway
East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.
Hotels
Nov 7, 2024Family-Friendly Holiday Packages from Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa will transform into a festive wonderland for family travelers this holiday season. Non-stop fun for all ages includes cookie decorating, face painting, hot chocolate and smores, and so much more.
Slideshow
Nov 7, 20247 Strasbourg, France, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
Hotels
Nov 6, 2024Discover What’s in Store for Kids at Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos
A private island resort in Turks and Caicos almost sounds too good to be true for family travelers, but true it is. Ambergris Cay, a private island resort about 600 miles south of Miami, is packed full of romance, relaxation and, now, incredible options for family fun.
Hotels
Nov 6, 2024Santa Claus is Coming to … Swissôtel Chicago
Family travelers to Chicago will want to book the Santa Suite at Swissôtel Chicago. Tickets and bookings are now available for the return of this beloved tradition. The theme this year is Holiday Songs, and 17 trees will be decorated with ornaments inspired by classic holiday favorites like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”
ShareThis