The inflight catering system is one of the most complicated operations in the aviation industry. It involves preparing meals for passengers on flights. Many airlines choose to outsource their catering to specialized service providers because of the complexity, while some still manage their own catering operations.
Since thousands of people travel on VIP flights, inflight catering companies usually have a large team. This team includes skilled workers, advanced technology and a focus on high-quality food for the passengers. All VIP private jet catering companies prioritize safety, timely meal preparation and hygiene to ensure a good experience.
Continue reading this blog to learn how the inflight catering system works, why it is important, some interesting facts and the key stakeholders involved in inflight catering.
Inflight catering workflow
Stage 1: Marketing research
Today, marketing relies heavily on research about passengers’ experiences with different inflight catering service providers. When choosing inflight catering services, passengers care the most about the food. Simply put, inflight meals are a significant part of the overall private jet and VIP flight travel experience.
Passengers often remember the quality of the meals, service and presentation when reflecting on their trip. This is why air catering companies should conduct marketing research to understand their passengers’ demographics, dietary needs, food preferences and buying habits.
This information will help them create better marketing strategies and improve sales. They can also use the research results to provide high-quality meals, which, in turn, will ultimately help them build a positive image in the aviation industry. Satisfied passengers are likely to share their good experiences with others.
Since inflight services like meals are key moments for aircraft catering companies to connect with passengers, they should use these services as a marketing tool. Private jet catering companies will encourage loyalty by focusing on providing an excellent experience at every VIP flight.
Catering specification- Inflight catering service
Aircraft catering services refer to the delivery of prepared and packaged food and drinks at airports for passengers to enjoy while flying. The inflight catering service plan is based on many key factors, such as the duration of the flight (long-haul flights or short-haul flights), the size of the aircraft, any special occasion, etc.
Whether a flight is short or long, an inflight catering menu is an essential part of a catering company’s offerings. Passengers can expect extensive menu options during their journey. At this stage, the VIP jet catering service providers plan the menu for each flight based on their marketing strategy, passenger preferences and dietary needs and the limitations of the aircraft’s kitchen.
Stage 2: The suppliers
Inflight catering providers source fresh ingredients from various suppliers. They maintain strong relationships with local suppliers and negotiate lower prices by ordering large quantities for their catering needs. They typically choose suppliers that offer high-quality ingredients at lower prices.
Contracts between air catering companies and suppliers include specific legal terms that strongly focus on punctuality. It means if a supplier fails to deliver, the catering providers may impose penalties and can seek alternative suppliers. In addition, suppliers must follow strict food safety, quality and security protocols, such as having a quality management system and a security program in place.
Stage 3: The inflight catering service providers
Inflight catering providers usually have two main responsibilities:
Preparing food: They source items directly from the suppliers and world’s most renowned restaurants, 5-star luxury hotels, VIP caterers and Michelin-star chefs ready to deliver onto the aircraft. (Related: Inflight Catering Services: What Can I Eat and Drink On a Private Jet?)
Assembling trays and trolleys: This process involves taking one or more ingredients and presenting them beautifully in meal trays.
Menu development is a key part of planning for private jet catering. The catering providers work closely with the passengers to meet their needs. Planning how to store meals in the aircraft’s galley to ensure they remain fresh and ready to eat is yet another important task that influences both menu choices and product specifications.
The sourcing process includes purchasing all the items needed for catering, managing, supplying and keeping track of inventory. Catering providers must build strong relationships with various external suppliers and top restaurants around the world to find the right products, including those requested by passengers and those that meet private jet catering luxury and comfort standards.
Airlines must have a safety management system and a security program approved by the civil aviation authority. In addition, they are also responsible for conducting audits to ensure that inflight catering providers follow strict security and safety standards during the preparation, transport, storage and loading of food and supplies onto the aircraft.
Suggested Read: 6 Reasons That DarkWing Inflight Catering Sets the Standard
The cabin crew
The catering service provider and the cabin crew need to collaborate as it is the only way to maintain food safety. The cabin crews need to know what type of inflight meal service is being provided and make sure it meets the catering requirements.
They must also check that the meals are stored correctly and that all the catering containers are sealed and protected from dust, bugs, security threats and temperature changes. When it is time to serve the food during the flight, the cabin crew is responsible for distributing meals, snacks and other items to passengers.
The passenger
Today, passengers want more from air catering companies than just something to eat. They are looking for high-quality and gourmet options similar to those from upscale restaurants.
That is why many best VIP private jet catering companies are focused on improving the quality of their catering to attract more customers. These companies can boost their profits, build customer loyalty and enhance their reputation by maintaining high food standards.
Conclusion
While it may seem like meals on board VIP flights come from just one source, there is actually a complex system behind it. Many different stakeholders are involved in the inflight catering process, including the inflight caterers themselves, suppliers and the VIP passengers who pay for the service.
If you are looking for the best catering solutions for VIP flights, do not look elsewhere and contact Dark Wing!
