Now, Krispy Kreme and Subway on board Jet Airways

Jet Airways is now introducing Subway sandwiches and Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed Doughnut on flights of less than 90 minutes duration. To start with, this will be on ex-Delhi flights, and soon on ex-Mumbai flights, after which they expect to spread this facility to flights from other metros.

There was a time when Jet Airways' catering used to be quite above par, even in economy class. That was maybe 10 years back. And after the Sahara acquisition, going through the phase of Jet and JetLite and all of that nonsense trying to find their own brand identity (before becoming the (un)official feeder service to Etihad), they completely lost it. 

First the the quality of on-board catering declined, and then the quantity. I recall one flight on the MAA-BRU route, when all they offered in economy (mind you, we're talking about a 2 am departure here), was a kathi roll in economy, just after departure (most folks slept away, so there weren't too many takers either). No mention of breakfast before arriving, either.

Things have taken a turn for the better in the last couple of years. While on-board dinner isn't spectacular in the back of the bus, at least it is palatable these days on the longer flights within India. However, short-haul flights in India still seem to get the short end of the stick when it comes to food on-board.

Jet Airways business class lunch

Which is why I really like this new offering from Jet, though I can't see how they can help maintain Subway's tagline of "Eat Fresh". Nonetheless, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian sandwich options, this is a start, and something no other airline has done.

There's also a lot riding on Subway's and Krispy Kreme's ability to cater high-quality stuff for Jet's flights. But this is a great marketing opportunity for them as well.

The only thing I can't say for sure from Jet's communication, is whether these are in addition to other food options, or will these be the only ones.

"We're delighted to be the first airline in India to introduce sandwiches and doughnuts from internationally renowned food brands Subway and Krispy Kreme on board flights within India.

Now get more with a choice of Subway's trademark submarine sandwiches, available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and Krispy Kreme's signature 'original glazed doughnut' on flights with a duration of less than 90 minutes. 

Currently guests can enjoy these on flights departing from New Delhi to select destinations and the same will soon be available on flights from Mumbai as well as other metros. 

The introduction of Subway sandwiches and Krispy Kreme doughnuts, is a key initiative in our commitment to create a premium flying experience for you."

Having recently consulted for an airline in India and their overseas partner-in-waiting (can't tell you more than that!!!), I can attest to the complexities involved in the catering side of operations, so I only hope that Jet, Subway and Krispy Kreme don't mess this up.

I need to remember to stay of the donuts, but maybe I'll try the Subway next time. Expect a sub-report!

Readers: Anybody already experienced the donut and/or sub sandwiches? How're they? More importantly, how do they taste in the air as opposed to on the ground?