There’s no denying that flying can be a stressful and sometimes unpleasant experience. However, many airlines strive to make their passengers feel comfortable and happy during their journey, and one way of doing so is by providing free snacks on board.
One of the most beloved snacks on airplanes is cookies. Who doesn’t love a warm, soft cookie when flying at 35,000 feet? But which airline gives cookies to its passengers? In this article, we will explore the airlines that offer this sweet treat during their flights and dive into why the humble cookie has become such a popular in-flight snack.
The history of in-flight snacks and why passengers love them
In-flight snacks have been a part of commercial air travel since the early days of aviation. During the golden age of air travel in the 1950s and 1960s, airlines would serve elaborate meals with multiple courses. However, with the rise of cost-cutting measures in the industry in the 1980s and 1990s, airlines began to eliminate or downsize their in-flight meal services. This resulted in the introduction of smaller, snack-sized food items such as cookies, pretzels, and peanuts.
Despite the reduction in meal service, in-flight snacks remain a beloved aspect of air travel for many passengers. These snacks provide a small comfort during long flights and serve as a diversion from the boredom of being stuck in a small space for a prolonged period. Furthermore, for many passengers, in-flight snacks trigger memories of traveling and can be a source of nostalgia.
Which airlines offer cookies as their in-flight snack option?
When we think of airline snacks, we usually think of boring pretzels or peanuts. But luckily for cookie lovers, several airlines now offer cookies as an in-flight snack option. Delta Airlines, for example, serves Biscoff cookies, which are a type of spiced shortcrust biscuit originating from Belgium. These cookies are a popular choice among passengers, with their sweet, slightly crunchy texture satisfying any mid-flight cravings.
Another airline that offers cookies is United Airlines. Their choice of snack is the stroopwafel, a popular Dutch cookie consisting of two waffle-like layers filled with a caramel-like syrup. This snack has become something of a customer favorite, with many people specifically choosing United flights for the chance to enjoy a stroopwafel mid-flight. Overall, the availability of cookies as an airplane snack is a welcome change from the usual options, and these airlines are winning over passengers with their delicious treats.
Exploring the various types of cookies offered by different airlines
When it comes to offering complimentary snacks during flights, cookies seem to be a popular choice among airlines. However, not all cookies are created equal, and some airlines have gone the extra mile to provide their passengers with a diverse selection.
Delta Airlines, for example, has been known to offer chocolate chip, Biscoff, and oatmeal raisin cookies on their flights. Southwest Airlines’ passengers can enjoy a variety of packaged cookies, including Oreo, Chips Ahoy!, and Keebler fudge stripes. Meanwhile, JetBlue Airways has an exclusive partnership with the popular gourmet cookie company, Tate’s Bake Shop, and offers their chocolate chip cookies onboard.
Other airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines also offer a range of cookie options for passengers to enjoy. Some of these airlines even have special cookies that are unique to their brand. Overall, whether you have a sweet tooth or not, it’s safe to say that there’s always a cookie option available for passengers on most airlines.
The pros and cons of offering cookies as an in-flight snack
Cookies have become a popular in-flight snack choice for many airlines. They are a sweet and tasty treat that can help to satisfy passengers’ hunger and boost their mood during a long flight. There are several upsides to serving cookies during a flight. They are easy to prepare, they don’t require refrigeration, and they can be stored for long periods of time without going bad.
However, there are also some downsides to offering cookies as an in-flight snack. One potential issue is that they may not be suitable for passengers with certain dietary restrictions, such as those who are allergic to gluten or nuts. Additionally, cookies can be high in sugar and calories, which can be a concern for some passengers who are trying to watch their weight or avoid processed foods. Airlines may also have to consider the cost of providing cookies and whether they are worth it for their overall brand image and customer satisfaction.
How do airlines choose their in-flight snack options?
Airlines carefully select their in-flight snack options by evaluating various factors such as flight duration, destination, and passenger preferences. For short-haul flights, snacks like potato chips, crackers, and cookies are popular choices amongst airlines. However, on long-haul flights, airlines provide more substantial meals.
Airlines also choose their in-flight snack options by considering special dietary requirements of their passengers, cultural preferences, and the availability of locally sourced products. They also conduct surveys to understand what snacks their passengers prefer, and how they would like these snacks to be packaged or offered. Overall, airlines aim to provide their passengers with a variety of snack options that are nutritious, shelf-stable, and easy to store, handle, and dispose of during long or short-haul flights.
The impact of COVID-19 on the in-flight snack industry and cookie offerings
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the airline industry, and the in-flight snack industry has not been spared. With airlines making significant cuts to their in-flight services, the fate of the beloved in-flight cookie has been uncertain. Over the past few years, airlines have been reducing their snack options, and COVID-19 has only accelerated this trend.
Several airlines have suspended their cookie offerings to help minimize touchpoints and enhance the safety of passengers and crew. However, some airlines are still offering individually wrapped snacks, including cookies, as a way to keep the in-flight experience as close to normal as possible. Airlines that are still offering cookies have also increased cleaning procedures and put measures in place to ensure the snacks are safe for consumption. As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic, it remains to be seen how the in-flight snack industry will evolve, and whether the in-flight cookie will once again become a staple of travel.
What does the future of in-flight snacks and cookie offerings look like?
The future of in-flight snacks and cookie offerings looks promising as airlines continue to innovate and improve their services. Many airlines are recognizing the importance of providing passengers with high-quality snacks and treats, especially as more travelers are becoming health-conscious and seeking healthier options.
This has led to a growing trend of airlines offering more diverse snack options, including fresh fruit, protein bars, and even vegan and gluten-free snacks. Additionally, some airlines are partnering with popular food brands and chefs to offer unique and exclusive snack offerings that differentiate their in-flight experience. As technology continues to advance, we can expect airlines to further personalize their snack offerings to cater to individual tastes and preferences.
The Conclusion
It’s always a nice touch when airlines offer their passengers complimentary snacks during their flights. Cookies, in particular, seem to be a popular choice amongst airlines. Some airlines have even gone above and beyond by offering speciality cookies or partnering with local bakeries to provide unique options. It may seem like a small gesture, but it can make a big difference in a passenger’s overall experience.
While there may not be a clear winner in the airline cookie game, it’s safe to say that passengers appreciate the effort put into providing complimentary snacks. Whether it’s a classic chocolate chip or a gourmet option, cookies add a touch of comfort and hospitality to the often-stressful experience of air travel. It’s a simple way for airlines to make their passengers feel valued and appreciated, and that can go a long way in earning customer loyalty.
