Burgers, Boarding Passes, and Bold Moves: Flying High on Delta, American, and SeaTac Eats

Good morning, jet-setters and burger aficionados! Today, we’re taking off with a newsletter packed tighter than a carry-on in the overhead bin. Delta Air Lines is serving up Shake Shack cheeseburgers to first-class flyers, while American Airlines is reshuffling premium seats (and lavatories) with Project Olympus. Speaking of in-flight surprises, a stowaway made a mid-air cameo on a packed Delta flight to Paris. And for those with a layover at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, we’re bringing you a guide to its best global bites.

But first, here are some links to our previous email articles:

✈️Delta Goes Gourmet with Shake Shack Cheeseburgers

Flying first class on Delta just got tastier. Starting December 1, 2024, Shake Shack’s iconic cheeseburgers will debut as a pre-order meal option for first-class flyers departing Boston Logan (BOS).

The burgers come fully equipped—with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and the famous ShackSauce on the side—plus chips, Caesar salad, and a decadent dark chocolate brownie reminiscent of Shake Shack’s dessert lineup. Ordering is as easy as tapping into the Fly Delta app or checking your email for pre-select options (just don’t wait until you’re on board—this one’s first-class-only).

Delta’s also stepping up its wine game with a handpicked list of 20 sommelier-approved selections. Pair that with your burger, and you’re dining at 35,000 feet like it’s Madison Square Park.

Ready to savor the sky? Delta’s bringing the comfort food vibes nationwide in 2025.

✈️American Airlines’ “Project Olympus” Redefines First-Class Comfort—Or Lack Thereof

American Airlines is ditching first class in favor of more premium seating as part of “Project Olympus,” a major revamp of its Boeing 777-300ERs. The redesign boosts premium seating from 84 to 114 seats, introducing snazzy business-class suites with doors.

Here’s the math: First class is out (RIP to those eight cushy seats), while business class expands to 70 seats and premium economy jumps to 44. The coach section remains untouched at 216 seats, but there’s a catch—lavatories and legroom are getting the squeeze to make it happen.

The good news? Accessible lavatories will remain, and the door-equipped business suites might help soften the blow of shrinking space elsewhere. The bad news? Fewer roomy bathrooms could make long-haul flights feel, well, extra long.

In the world of flying, comfort is premium real estate—and on American’s 777s, it just got a little pricier.

✈️Stowaway Sneaks Onto Delta Flight, Turns Lavatories Into Lounge

Delta’s flight 264 from JFK to Paris got an unexpected passenger—a stowaway who managed to bypass TSA security and board the packed plane without a ticket. The uninvited guest spent most of the flight bouncing between lavatories, raising suspicion until she was finally caught just before landing.

With the flight fully booked, the stowaway lacked a seat, making her restroom-hopping hard to ignore. Upon arrival, authorities met the plane, leaving passengers stuck in their seats as the issue was resolved.

TSA admitted the individual passed security but clarified no prohibited items were found. Delta promised a thorough investigation, emphasizing safety as a top priority.

This isn’t Delta’s first brush with stowaways—similar incidents occurred earlier this year, making 2024 the unofficial year of who let them on board? Maybe it’s time for gate agents to double-check those boarding passes.

✈️SeaTac’s Culinary Tour: Where to Dine Before You Fly

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) isn’t just a Pacific Northwest travel hub—it’s a dining destination offering global flavors that reflect Seattle’s rich cultural diversity.

From African sambusas at Africa Lounge in Concourse A to Northwest-inspired Asian cuisine at Hachi-Ko in Concourse C, SeaTac serves up something for everyone. Fancy boba? Head to Concourse D’s Neighborhood Bubble Tea & Coffee, or indulge in fresh, locally sourced dishes and craft brews at Ballard Brew Hall. Even quick bites have flair: LouLou Market and Bar in Concourse B blends French elegance with Seattle’s signature charm.

For the best breakfast burrito or a creamy milkshake, explore the North Satellite Terminal—home to Skillet, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, and P.F. Chang’s. Heading international? The South Satellite keeps it classic with burgers at Greedy Cow and coffee from Peet’s.

Pro tip: Plan your layover wisely—your taste buds will thank you. 🍴✈️

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✨ Safe Travels & Happy Landings! Thank you for flying with us on this newsletter journey. Until next time, keep your passports ready and your adventures grand!