Corendon Airlines is set to make aviation history by becoming the first airline to serve a globally-beloved street food—the döner kebab. As of Jan. 1, 2025, the Turkish leisure airline will serve the iconic döner to those travelling between Germany and Türkiye, accompanied by Ayran, a traditional Turkish yoghurt-based drink. This innovative addition is a nod to the cultural ties between Germany and Turkey, delighting the airline’s core markets.
Döner in the Sky
Döner kebabs, a dish of Turkish origin, have become a beloved staple across Europe. Traditionally made from seasoned meat roasted on a vertical rotisserie and served with the traditional yufka flatbread, the Turkish kebab has transcended its humble beginnings to become a cultural phenomenon, especially in countries like Germany and the UK. In Germany alone, an estimated two million döner kebabs are said to be consumed daily, making it a felicitous addition to Corendon Airlines’ onboard menu.
Deputy General Manager of Operations at Corendon Airlines, Atilay Batu, explains the inspiration behind this new culinary venture:
Our thought process was simple—what do people in Germany eat the most? Turkish döner stands out significantly. Both our Turkish and German passengers love it, so we decided to offer döner on flights originating from Germany. They make it exceptionally well; I’ve tried it myself and loved it. I’m confident our passengers will be delighted with this new offering.
Future Horizons
If the döner kebab proves successful on Germany-Turkey routes, Corendon Airlines plans to expand its availability across more destinations. This innovative addition not only caters to travellers’ tastes but equally highlights an evolving landscape of turkish in-flight dining within the aviation industry. This broader shift toward personalised and culturally inspired dining options underscores the pioneering philosophy and overarching mission of the airline.
For travellers, the introduction of döner kebabs onboard offers a familiar and comforting experience. Whether it’s a taste of home for Turkish passengers or a culinary adventure for foreign travellers… The sky truly is the limit for creative in-flight dining.
Are you excited for this new in-flight delight? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or via our social media – @thetravalradar
