Upgrading to gourmet meals while in-flight is the new new thing

AirBerlin was the first carrier to launch an a la carte service for economy customers, teaming with upscale German restaurant Sansibar. The onboard menu includes a favorite from the restaurant’s own: a veal and pork currywurst.

Blain Miyasato, Hawaiian Airline’s vice president of product development, has joined with local businesses to source items that evoke the spirit of Hawaii — from wasabi ranch popcorn to toffee covered macadamia nuts.

Austrian Airways sells roughly 600,000 pre-ordered meals a year, while U.S. Airways, which in August became the first American carrier to launch premium dining in economy class, estimates it has sold over 5,000 units from its DineFresh menu.

Because the meals are customized, passengers are required to order anywhere from 24 to 48 hours in advance, though that may also change in the future.