Air Italy has launched a new long-haul Economy class dining experience with an in-house brand called La Delizie. The Sardinia-based airline, which actually operates its long haul flights from Milan Malpensa, says the menus will “pay homage” to the local flavors of Italy.
The carrier has opted for a traditional tray-based service, with the appetiser, hot entree and dessert all served at the same time. Also on each tray will be a personal water bottle and stainless steel cutlery.
“Enhancing the catering and inflight service on long-haul flights is one of the best ways to showcase an airline’s commitment to offer the most refined travel experience, helping differentiate it as a carrier that is truly customer-focused,” explained Air Italy’s chief operating officer, Rossen Dimitrov.
Previously head of Inflight Service at Qatar Airways, Dimitrov has introduced a number of passenger experience changes with similarities to his old airline.
Air Italy is 49 per cent owned by the Doha-based airline but has attempted to distance itself from its minority stakeholder following controversy stirred up by the likes of Delta Air Lines chief executive Ed Bastian.
Earlier this year, Air Italy revamped its Business Class dining experience, the highlight of which was a ‘dine on demand’ concept. Upgraded service and flatware was also introduced.
Air Italy uses its fleet of five Airbus A330 aircraft for long-haul operations – all of which are loaned from Qatar Airways. The new dining experience will be served on daily flights to New York and Miami (except Tuesday). In the summer season, the service is also delivered on flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Toronto. For winter 2019/2020, Air Italy will then switch to serving the Maldives, Zanzibar and Mombasa.
Air Italy lost just over €164 million in 2018 – its first year of operation after switching from its old brand name of Meridiana.
