Quantcast

AirTran Airways was the first airline to serve illy coffee in-flight

Airline Stocks To Keep An Eye On - April 28th
Report: JetBlue, United Mulling Partnership
New First-Class Suites, Futuristic Aircraft and the Top Air Travel News From April 2025
Southwest Airlines Announces Reimagined Fare Products, New Benefits for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers and Tier Member Customers
United CEO calls Trump's tariffs a 'chess game'
Flight tickets from Srinagar remain exorbitantly high despite aviation ministry request
RTX Q1 Earnings & Sales Beat Estimates, Increase Year Over Year
Delta faces federal investigation as it scraps hundreds of flights for fifth straight day
Coalition pledges to remove EV tax break two days after Dutton ruled out scrapping it – as it happened
Adani’s airport unit seeks $750 million loan from global banks
GE Aerospace affirms outlook; CEO met with Trump to discuss tariffs
Flight made emergency landing in Denver after reported animal strike and engine fire
General Dynamics says G800 jet receives FAA, EASA certifications
Archer unveils plans for NYC air-taxi network in partnership with United Airlines
United Airlines doubles down on Chicago roots with new O'Hare billboards
ICAO Proposes ‘Journey Pass’ Biometric ID Boarding
Gatwick airport strikes, Easter 2025: will my flight be cancelled?
Boarding passes and check-in could be scrapped in air travel shake-up
European air traffic warning means summer delays for holidaymakers
The EU rule change that could affect millions of Brits when their flight is delayed or cancelled
Delta Earnings Land Soon. Why They’re Key for Airline Stocks and the Economy.
Avelo Airlines to Operate Deportation Flights, Hiring Flight Attendants
Travel chaos 2025: all the strikes and disruption expected across Europe
Qatar Airways accelerates Starlink wifi implementation
Southwest Airlines extends flight schedule through early April 2025
Cathay Pacific reaches 3,400 pilots this year, with low resignation rate of 2.9%
Qatar Airways Nears Boeing 777 Fleet-Wide Starlink Upgrade
United receives FAA approval for first Starlink-equipped planes
50 New Routes Launching In April 2025
Qantas launches mammoth Asia flight sale including Bali and Japan
AirTran Airways was the first airline to serve illy coffee in-flight
Policy
Webp received 1362249461632918
AirTran Airways | Official Website

In the realm of airline coffee, quality has not always been a focal point, with passengers frequently accepting mediocre options to stay energized. However, recent trends have seen airlines partner with renowned coffee brands, enhancing the travel experience.

United Airlines' collaboration with illy, the esteemed Italian coffee company, is a prominent example. In 2015, United introduced illy coffee on its flights, delighting passengers who long sought a better beverage at high altitudes. A lesser-known fact is that AirTran Airways served illy coffee first, well before United's notable initiative.

In 2009, AirTran partnered with illy, offering illy issimo Latte Macchiato as part of its inflight services, as reported by ADVFN. The drink was complimentary for business class and available for purchase in economy class. This offering was significant for introducing a high-end European coffee brand to the airline industry before it became standard on major US carriers.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

AirTran, originally founded as ValuJet Airlines in 1992, rebranded after merging with AirTran Airways in 1997 following a major setback. Under the AirTran name, the airline broadened its network and enhanced customer service, becoming a formidable low-cost carrier. In 2010, Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran for approximately $1.4 billion, completing the integration by 2014.

United Airlines, although not the first, brought illy to a broader audience. A press release from United Airlines noted that in 2015, the airline replaced its former in-flight coffee with illy's premium blend fleet-wide. This decision responded to passenger feedback advocating for a superior coffee experience, leading to a significant improvement deemed notable by travelers.

Since integrating illy coffee, United Airlines continued to develop this partnership. Notably in July 2024, United announced the introduction of illy Ready-To-Drink Cold Brew on select flights and in United Clubs. As stated by PR Newswire, this expansion aligns with rising demand for cold coffee beverages among younger travelers.

Illy, founded in 1933 in Trieste, Italy, is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The company offers 100% Arabica beans sourced from across the globe, ensuring a smooth and well-balanced flavor. The brand's recognizable blend and ethical practices make it an appealing choice for airlines looking to enhance their onboard coffee offerings.

While United Airlines championed illy's recognition in aviation, AirTran Airways was a pioneer, introducing illy products to passengers in-flight. Other airlines have also improved their coffee services, reflecting a shift toward better-quality onboard food and drink selections. Notably, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Emirates have also upgraded their in-flight coffee, partnering with premium brands.

The evolution in airline coffee highlights the importance of meeting passenger expectations. Both AirTran and United Airlines recognized the impact of offering a premium coffee experience, a realization now shared by many carriers worldwide.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The United States Air Force remains the largest operator of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet.

Jun 29, 2025

The Brazilian aviation regulatory authority, ANAC, has ordered the permanent closure of Voepass Linhas Aéreas.

Jun 29, 2025

Europe's airline market may soon experience a significant shift as the European Union moves to prohibit airlines from charging passengers extra for hand luggage.

Jun 29, 2025

On June 13, 2025, it was reported that Airbus is set to begin flight tests for two new variants of its popular wide-body jet, the Airbus A350.

Jun 29, 2025

The integration of ITA Airways into the Lufthansa Group marks a significant development in European commercial aviation.

Jun 29, 2025

The geopolitical situation in the Middle East has recently created significant challenges for airlines operating in the region, with sudden airspace closures affecting flight schedules.

Jun 29, 2025