5 best airlines for snack lovers

What happens when the mid-flight munchies hit and the complimentary bag of mini pretzels just won’t cut it?

From long-haul flights to quick puddle jumps, we did some research to find out which airlines offer the most interesting fare. We found that these five airlines offer some of the best savory snacks for your in-flight dining pleasure. A note of caution to your tingling taste buds: these snacks all come at a cost, but hey, it beats the fast food joint at the airport.

Air France
It may not come as a surprise that Air France gives its passengers free champagne (on most flights). They also get French pastries by the basket or via breakfast tray, depending on cabin. Business class passengers are also treated to an array of cheeses.    

Air France lets you choose between the traditional meal serve or one of the five a la carte meals, should you find yourself seated in the voyageur (economy) or premium voyager cabins on a long-haul flight. Sure, opting for the meal of the day won’t cost you any extra, but springing for the a la carte upgrade lets you dine on organic or Italian cuisine.  The meals cost between 12 and 28 euros (about $14.50-$34).

JetBlue
If you are craving something crunchy, salty or sweet while aboard a JetBlue flight, you are in luck. The airline offers complimentary brand-name snacks like PopCorners Popcorn Chips, Terra Blues Potato Chips and Linden's chocolate chip cookies. Still hungry? You can purchase one of four “eat up” boxes for $5.99. The Beef Up box comes with items like Hormel hard salami and Glacier Ridge Farms white cheddar cheese, but if you are looking for a lighter fare, you can opt for the Kosher, vegetarian and gluten-free Shape Up box. Click here for more information about all of the snacks available on JetBlue.  

Virgin Airlines
There are some seriously satisfying snacks available for purchase onboard Virgin America flights. From organic 479° popcorn in caramel topped with Fleur de Sel to Chex Mix to Emerald mixed nuts, there is something that is sure to hit the spot. If you are looking to indulge, try the better-than-homemade dark and milk chocolate cookies from Holly Baking Company. Snacks range from $3 – $4 and can be ordered using the plane's Red system’s interactive seatback entertainment platform at any time during the flight.

Alaskan Air
Coach class passengers on Alaskan air are treated to complimentary Starbucks Pike’s Place Roast coffee, but those who hear their stomachs growling don’t need to look too far. Picnic Packs are available for  $6 each. Choose the vegan and gluten-free Mediterranean Tapas pack, which comes with Wild Garden sun-dried tomato hummus dip and Mario snack olives, or munch on Sahale Glazed Almonds and Tim's Cascade potato chips from the Northwest Deli pack. The Kids' Choice pack is filled with snacks that both you and your little ones will love, including Pirate's Booty white cheddar puffs.   

Delta
Delta’s EATS menu is full of goodies. The Travel Treats snack box ($5.50) comes with Pepperidge Farm goldfish and as well as chocolate chunk cookies. If you are looking for something different, try to Flight Delights box, which includes Stacy’s Brand pita chips, Back to Nature honey graham sticks and Nutella spread.