Air France Brings Michelin-Star Magic to U.S. Flights with Daniel Boulud’s Signature Menus
New York, NY – In a landmark move to redefine premium in-flight experiences, Air France has announced the return of Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud to its culinary team, unveiling a new menu curated exclusively for La Première and Business Class cabins on flights departing from major U.S. cities. Starting July 2025, passengers flying from New York, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, and Washington DC will be treated to Boulud’s gastronomic creations, transforming air travel into a fine-dining journey.
This renewed partnership between Air France and Boulud, one of the most celebrated chefs in the world, highlights the airline’s commitment to offering an exceptional onboard experience rooted in the elegance of French culinary heritage. The rollout begins with Air France’s flagship route—New York–JFK to Paris–Charles de Gaulle—before expanding to other U.S. departure cities in the coming months.
French Gastronomy at 30,000 Feet
Chef Daniel Boulud, renowned for his New York-based restaurant DANIEL and culinary legacy in modern French cuisine, brings his vision of refined, seasonal fare onboard. The new menu offers a rotating selection of dishes that blend French tradition with a modern twist—using local U.S. ingredients alongside premium French imports to craft meals designed for altitude without compromising on flavor or finesse.
Signature offerings include refined red meat, poultry, and seafood entrees, artfully plated and complemented by elegant sides and sauces. Collaborating closely with Servair, Air France’s longstanding catering partner, Boulud ensures each dish maintains quality and integrity from kitchen to cabin.
This marks Boulud’s second culinary collaboration with the airline, strengthening Air France’s brand as a leader in premium European air travel. His creative influence further aligns with the airline’s dedication to hospitality excellence, making every flight between the U.S. and France a gourmet journey.
Business and Leisure Travelers Embrace Luxury Dining
With the post-pandemic revival of international travel, both business and leisure travelers are seeking more immersive and memorable experiences. Air France is positioning itself to meet that demand with a differentiated offering—one that pairs its award-winning La Première cabin with a Michelin-starred menu.
For frequent flyers, especially those traveling on business routes between New York, Los Angeles, and Paris, the culinary upgrade enhances productivity and comfort. Meanwhile, leisure travelers embarking on a dream vacation to France now start their experience the moment they board, indulging in world-class cuisine even before arriving in Paris.
Expanding Air France’s Global Culinary Network
The collaboration with Daniel Boulud is part of a larger strategy by Air France to redefine in-flight gastronomy across its long-haul network. In addition to Boulud, the airline has partnered with culinary giants such as:
- Dominique Crenn (U.S. routes) – Known for vegetarian and sustainable seafood creations.
- Julien Royer (Singapore) – A two-Michelin-star chef showcasing Franco-Asian fusion dishes.
- Olivier Perret (Canada) – Master of contemporary French cuisine in North America.
- Olivier Chaignon (Japan) – Fusing Japanese ingredients with French techniques.
This global approach underscores Air France’s ambition to offer culturally relevant yet authentically French dining on all international routes.
Sustainability and Pre-Flight Meal Selection
Beyond flavor and finesse, Air France is also prioritizing sustainability. The airline recently introduced pre-selection of Business Class meals on long-haul flights departing from select airports. Travelers can now choose their preferred hot meal up to 24 hours in advance via Air France’s website or mobile app.
This initiative reduces food waste by allowing caterers to tailor meal quantities more accurately—part of the airline’s wider effort to minimize its environmental footprint and operate more efficiently. The added benefit for travelers is a guaranteed meal of choice, enhancing satisfaction while supporting eco-conscious operations.
Travel Tips for Culinary Enthusiasts
If you’re flying Air France from a U.S. gateway city in 2025, here’s how to make the most of your Michelin-star dining in the sky:
- Book Early: La Première and Business Class cabins offering Daniel Boulud menus are in high demand.
- Pre-Select Your Meal: Available up to 24 hours before departure on eligible flights.
- Request Wine Pairings: The airline’s cellar features award-winning French wines, curated by top sommeliers.
- Stay Updated: New seasonal dishes rotate every few months, keeping the menu fresh and reflective of the season.
Air France: Where Luxury Takes Flight
With this culinary revival, Air France is reinforcing its identity as a premium carrier that offers more than just transport—it offers an immersive journey that celebrates French elegance, cuisine, and hospitality. From the runway at JFK to the boulevards of Paris, passengers will experience the luxury of fine dining led by one of the world’s foremost chefs.
For international travelers who value comfort, taste, and unforgettable experiences, Air France is fast becoming the airline of choice for transatlantic gourmet travel.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire