Air France is elevating its in-flight and lounge dining experience with the launch of exquisite new menus curated by some of the world’s most celebrated chefs. Triple Michelin-starred chef Jérôme Banctel is the latest culinary maestro to join Air France’s prestigious team, which already includes culinary greats such as Nina Métayer, Glenn Viel, Philippe Rigollot, Frédéric Simonin, Michel Roth, Josselin Marie, and Alain Ducasse. These chefs bring their refined culinary expertise to Air France customers, offering a taste of French haute cuisine both in-flight and in airport lounges.
A Culinary Collaboration with Servair
To bring these world-class menus to life, Air France collaborates with Servair, a global leader in in-flight catering. Together, they focus on sourcing the finest seasonal, local ingredients. In a commitment to responsible gastronomy, the airline prioritizes French-sourced meat, poultry, dairy products, and eggs, while all fish is sourced from sustainable fisheries. The commitment to inclusivity and variety extends to vegetarians as well, with vegetarian menu options available in both lounges and on board every flight.
Jérôme Banctel Brings Brittany to the Business Cabin
On long-haul flights departing from Paris, Business Class passengers can savor the culinary craftsmanship of Jérôme Banctel. Known for his innovative flavors and recently awarded three Michelin stars, Banctel has created a menu inspired by his native Brittany. His dishes blend French tradition with inventive flair, including his signature sauces free of butter or cream. Featured dishes include chicken with buttermilk sauce, buckwheat risotto, parsley oil, and haddock with a spiced carrot sauce and ginger. Over the next eight months, Business travelers will have the opportunity to experience this refined and nostalgic homage to Banctel’s roots.
“I wanted to offer travelers a glimpse of my cuisine, a blend of gourmet delicacy and unexpected flavors,” Banctel shares.
Desserts by World Pastry Chef Nina Métayer
Complementing Banctel’s savory creations, World Pastry Chef 2023 Nina Métayer continues her partnership with Air France. Since April 2024, Métayer has been delighting passengers with her light yet indulgent desserts, such as her signature crunchy hazelnut and caramel delicacy and a refreshing mango-coconut slice with a hint of lime.
Frédéric Simonin in Premium Economy
For Premium Economy customers, the Michelin-starred chef Frédéric Simonin continues to deliver an exceptional culinary experience. Simonin, known for his precise technique and respect for ingredients, has developed a fresh series of dishes to satisfy the discerning palate of Premium travelers.
Dining Excellence in Air France Lounges
Air France has extended its dedication to fine dining to its long-haul airport lounges as well. In the exclusive La Première lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse and his team bring a taste of Monte Carlo to the skies with signature dishes like coquillettes with ham and black truffle, and Ducasse’s iconic rum or Armagnac baba. For other long-haul lounges in terminal 2E, Ducasse Paris has introduced an innovative “Burgal” – a vegetarian, sustainable alternative to the traditional burger, crafted from locally-sourced French cereals and vegetables.
At the Paris-Orly international lounge, Jérôme Banctel’s seasonal creations continue to showcase the beauty of French cuisine, further enhancing Air France’s commitment to culinary excellence at every level.
A Culinary Journey with Air France
With these new menus, Air France invites travelers on a refined gastronomic journey, whether they are lounging pre-flight or soaring at 30,000 feet. By collaborating with top-tier chefs and embracing sustainable practices, Air France continues to set a new standard for luxury dining in the skies.