Delta, Union Square form alliance to elevate airline food

New York

IT is no secret that airlines are waging an increasingly pitched battle for the biggest-spending passengers who fly in premium classes: The carriers have deployed amenities such as fluffy feather duvets and spa treatments.

Now, Delta Air Lines is trying to gain an edge with its food - a decidedly tall order.

The company has struck an alliance with Union Square Hospitality Group, the food service empire behind Shake Shack and restaurants such as Union Square Cafe, Blue Smoke and Gramercy Tavern.

The goal is to serve food in its Delta One cabin on international flights from Kennedy International Airport that is just as good as the food set on the table in Union Square's restaurants.

"We want passengers to say: 'This is great food' - not, 'This is great food for an airline'," said John Harenda, vice-president for operations at Union Square Events, the group's catering se…