In 2025, Delta Airlines and Shake Shack teamed up to deliver something exciting for travelers — the chance to enjoy Shake Shack’s signature burgers while flying. Now, passengers on select Delta flights can customize and enjoy the popular ShackBurger in the sky. These in-flight burgers come complete with fresh toppings like tomato, lettuce, and the famous ShackSauce. This partnership is part of Delta’s ongoing effort to improve the customer experience and bring restaurant-quality food to passengers mid-air. Shake Shack’s expansion into the airline industry combines convenience, flavor, and comfort, especially for those flying premium routes. Whether you’re wondering if the burgers taste the same, which routes offer them, or if this is a limited-time option — all the answers are below.
What Are Delta Shake Shack Burgers?
Delta Shake Shack burgers are in-flight meals available on select Delta Airlines flights. These burgers are part of Delta’s onboard dining service and are prepared in partnership with the Shake Shack brand. The goal is to provide a gourmet fast-food experience for travelers while cruising at 30,000 feet.
The burger offered is the ShackBurger — a popular menu item that includes a juicy beef patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and ShackSauce, all served on a potato bun. Passengers can request customizations, depending on availability. The burger closely resembles what you’d receive at a Shake Shack restaurant.
Why Did Delta Partner with Shake Shack?
Delta Airlines has been continuously working on improving the in-flight experience. Partnering with known food brands is a part of that strategy. Shake Shack, a beloved American burger chain known for high-quality fast food, fits well with Delta’s premium branding.
This partnership enhances the dining options for passengers and offers something unique that most other airlines don’t provide. It also allows Delta to differentiate its service by offering popular restaurant-brand meals onboard.
Where Can You Get Shake Shack on Delta Flights?
As of 2025, Shake Shack burgers are not available on all Delta flights. They are mainly served on premium transcontinental routes. These include flights between:
- Los Angeles (LAX) and New York City (JFK)
- Seattle and New York City
- San Francisco and Boston
- Other first-class or Delta One routes
These routes typically cater to business-class passengers, and the meal is available in the premium cabins only.
How Are the Burgers Prepared Onboard?
Shake Shack does not cook the burgers onboard from scratch. Instead, the burgers are pre-prepped and packaged before the flight. Onboard staff then heat and assemble the meal just before serving.
While this means it’s not exactly the same as visiting a Shake Shack location, Delta and Shake Shack have worked closely to ensure the flavor and quality remain intact. The buns are still soft, the patties juicy, and the ShackSauce is just as creamy and tangy.
What Makes the Delta Shake Shack Burger Special?
The Delta ShackBurger experience is special because of its exclusivity. It’s not available on every flight, and only premium passengers get to enjoy it. The ingredients are of high quality and tailored for altitude, meaning the recipe accounts for taste changes that happen when you’re in the air.
The packaging is also designed for easy in-flight eating. The burger comes in eco-friendly containers with napkins, condiments, and a side item — often fries or chips — depending on the route.
Customer Reactions and Reviews
So far, passengers have responded positively. Many praise the freshness and flavor, especially when compared to standard airline food. Some have mentioned that it doesn’t quite replicate the Shake Shack restaurant experience, but for in-flight food, it’s impressive.
On social media, travelers frequently post photos and reviews of the Delta ShackBurger. It has quickly become a sought-after feature of the premium Delta flight experience.
Is This a Limited-Time Offering?
As of now, Delta has not confirmed whether this is a permanent feature or a limited-time trial. However, based on customer satisfaction and media coverage, the airline may expand this program to more flights.
It began as a trial offering but is now a highlight on premium transcontinental flights. If it continues to succeed, other routes and even international flights may be added in the future.
Does Every Delta Route Have Shake Shack?
No, Shake Shack burgers are not available on every Delta route. Only specific long-haul and premium domestic routes currently offer this option. Economy-class passengers do not get access to the ShackBurger, as it is reserved for Delta One or First-Class passengers.
It is recommended to check Delta’s in-flight menu before your trip or contact customer service to confirm availability.
Are Delta Shake Shack Burgers the Same as the Original?
While the taste is very similar, some differences exist due to preparation constraints. Here are a few key comparisons:
- Size: Slightly smaller than restaurant versions.
- Freshness: Pre-prepared and reheated but still fresh.
- Customizations: Limited compared to ordering at a Shake Shack location.
- Sides and drinks: Not all standard sides or milkshakes are available.
Despite these changes, the core flavor profile is intact, thanks to Shake Shack’s involvement in the preparation process.
What Else Is Served with the Delta Shake Shack Meal?
Each burger meal usually comes with a side. Depending on the flight, passengers may receive one of the following:
- Kettle-cooked potato chips
- Lightly salted fries
- Side salad (occasionally)
- Bottled water or soda
Desserts or additional snacks may also be included for Delta One passengers.
Read more : Does Shake Shack Serve Alcohol?
Delta Shake Shack Burgers vs. Regular In-Flight Meals
The ShackBurger clearly stands out from typical airline meals. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Delta ShackBurger | Regular In-Flight Meal |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Gourmet fast food flavor | Basic or bland |
| Brand Recognition | High (Shake Shack) | Low or unbranded |
| Packaging | Premium, eco-friendly | Standard airline tray |
| Availability | Limited to select routes | Available on most routes |
Why Is Delta Serving Shake Shack Burgers?
In 2025, the airline industry is more competitive than ever. Passengers expect not just safe travel, but luxury, comfort, and quality service. Delta’s collaboration with Shake Shack aligns with this vision. By offering unique food options, Delta sets itself apart and builds customer loyalty.
Moreover, the popularity of gourmet fast food and the increasing influence of food culture in travel decisions made this partnership a strategic move.
Future of In-Flight Dining with Delta
This collaboration may signal more brand partnerships in the future. Delta could extend such offerings to:
- More Shake Shack menu items (hot dogs, chicken sandwiches)
- Beverage pairings with well-known drink brands
- Dessert collaborations with bakery brands
It’s clear Delta is investing in elevating the passenger experience.
FAQs
Is the Delta Shake Shack burger good?
Yes. Most passengers say it tastes almost like the original, and it’s far better than standard airline food.
Is Delta expanding Shake Shack burgers to LA, Seattle, and New York flights?
Yes. These cities are part of the premium route program where Shake Shack meals are served.
Which Delta routes have Shake Shack?
Routes between JFK, LAX, SEA, SFO, and BOS are most likely to offer it.
What is the burger size served by Delta in Flights?
Shake Shack Offers Different Burger Sizes but it is yet not confirmed by delta that what size the often serve.
Are Shake Shack burgers frozen?
They are prepared fresh, pre-packaged, and heated before serving — not fully frozen like typical airline meals.
Is Shake Shack free on Delta flights?
Only for premium cabin passengers. Economy-class does not have access unless upgraded.
Does McDonald’s own Shake Shack?
No. Shake Shack is an independent company and not owned by McDonald’s.
Are the burgers the same everywhere?
No. The in-flight version is slightly smaller and customized for air travel.
Final Thoughts
The Delta Shake Shack burger collaboration brings an exciting twist to airline dining. By offering one of the most popular fast-food burgers in the air, Delta Airlines has raised the bar for passenger satisfaction. While it’s currently limited to premium routes, its popularity may lead to wider availability soon. Whether you’re a frequent flier or a food enthusiast, trying a ShackBurger mid-flight is definitely something to look forward to.
This partnership proves that even in the sky, flavor matters. And with Shake Shack on board, Delta is delivering just that.
