Catering on board private jets
If you are already a commercial cabin crew, you will discover on board private jets a totally new procedure for catering. This means you will not have anymore catering done by the company, this will be your responsibility as sole flight attendant or the Lead Flight Attendant ( if you are operating on a medium/ big jet). There are two types of operation. In the first case, if you are flying for a private owner you have to know his profile and preferences so you can do catering orders based on that profile. The second scenario involves clients who are renting the plane. In this case you need to be creative and come up with a fine dine menu.
Before being hired you need to learn more about dishes specific to different cultures and know some culinary tricks. Also you should be very good in plating the food on board and drinks pairing. Here are some examples of dishes you have to order depending on the nationality of the clients.
Luxury food
Food items like Caviar and Foie Gras are more likely to be ordered by European customers and Sushi/ Sashimi by the Asian ones.
Lately the trend for European clients is to request healthy food items (Salads, Sushi, Raw Vegan) and plenty of liquids (green tea and water). If you have an Eastern-European client you should include in your order the specific food for that area (example: Zakuski).
Middle Eastern are a fan of Arabic Mezze and fast food. Also you shouldn’t forget about the Arabic Coffee and dates. Make sure you have plenty of display items (nuts, fruit basket, chocolates) and flower arrangements.
Extra items on board
Scents that will be used inside the aircraft and on board Spa should match the customer’s preferences. In case you have children on board a different menu and amenities should be available for them.
All the items should be displayed in a hard copy menu in front of the customer.
A common practice these days involves for the crew to go shopping for amenities and food items and also to pre-plate them before the flight. After building a trust- relationship with the crew members, some owners choose to send them with his personal chauffer or assistant to buy the best products.
More information you can find during our premium courses for VIP Flight Attendants – a sneak peak into the Royalty world.
Info & photos: provided by our trainees and trainers