Airlines

Published Wed, Nov 11 202612:34 PM EST

Key Points

American Airlines said it plans to offer fresh food on flights between New York and Chicago.It's the first time in about seven years that the options are available, a spokeswoman said.The additions are part of American's push to win over more premium customers after falling behind United Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

An American Airlines plane taxis at Chicago O'Hare Airport in the northwest side of Chicago, Illinois on Jan. 15, 2026.

Daniel Slim | AFP | Getty Images

American Airlines said Wednesday it's bringing small, fresh "bites" to first class on flights between its hubs in New York and Chicago, the carrier's latest effort to win over higher-spending customers.

The changes start this month. Customers will be able to pick between two options, which include prosciutto and melon or apple cinnamon chia pudding for breakfast and a Thai noodle salad or mezze plate for lunch and dinner, American said Wednesday.

Read more about airlines' race to win over big spenders

American last offered fresh food for first class on these routes in 2019, a spokeswoman said. Currently, customers in first class on these flights get a smaller, packaged snack. Airlines largely have limited food options for shorter flights, even in first class.

American has fallen behind Delta Air Lines and United Airlines in profits and investments in premium options. The airline has been working to step up those premium offerings in recent years with new cabins, lounges and plans for seatback screens on its narrow-body fleets.