From the sunny beaches of South Florida to the redwood forests of the Pacific Northwest, the United States of America is a vast country with cuisine as varied as its many landscapes. Add in the tropical paradise of Hawaii and the frozen tundra of Alaska, and it quickly becomes apparent just how large and varied this country truly is. The United States (U.S.) is also home to the top economy in the world, so you are very likely to travel here during your career in business aviation.
While statistics can change at any time, recent numbers show Van Nuys Airport (KVNY) continues to reign as the busiest general aviation airport in the world. Rounding out rest of the top 10 general aviation airports in the United States are Daytona Beach International (KDAB), Centennial Airport (KAPA), Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (KDVT), Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE), Long Beach Municipal Airport (KLGB), Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (KPDK), Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport (KTMB), Montgomery Field Airport (KMYF) and Westchester County Airport (KHPN). In-flight catering for business aviation and private jets is available throughout the United States. Menus will typically have a combination of regional selections, chef specialties and time-tested favorites.
While operating to any country for the first few times, it is good practice to familiarize yourself with national holidays that may impact your trip. Four widely celebrated holidays that have dates that are specific to the U.S. are Memorial Day (last Monday of May), Independence Day (July 4th), Labor Day (first Monday of September) and Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday of November). Globally celebrated holidays that can impact your trip in the U.S. include Christmas, New Year and Easter. Restaurants and grocery stores can be closed on any of these holidays. Working with an in-flight caterer who is available 365 days a year, and providing advanced notice during this peak days, will ensure your catering plans are not impacted.
A few other tips to keep in mind if this if your first time visiting the U.S.:
- Tips are not included at restaurants. Generally, a tip between 15%-20% is expected for good service.
- Sales tax varies depending upon the state you are in. This can be as high as 9.45%.
- In some areas, texting or talking on the phone while driving is against the law.
- Drive on the right side of the road. Likewise, when walking it is courteous to remain on the right side of the sidewalk.
Questions?
If you have any questions about in-flight catering in the United States, contact weborders@airculinaire.com.
