Delta and JetBlue Face Fruit Juice Supply Challenges

Delta Air Lines is encountering a shortage of fruit juice across its domestic operations, affecting both first class and economy passengers. Some flights have no juice available, while others are restricted to serving juice only in first class due to limited supplies. This situation arises as inventories at certain airports have not yet been depleted.

JetBlue is also experiencing challenges, as cranberry cocktail has become unavailable since July 29, and apple juice is now provided in one-liter Tetra Pak cartons instead of individual cans. The change stems from a 'supplier production issue,' according to internal communications shared by aviation watchdog JonNYC.

Both airlines source their juice from Minute Maid, owned by Coca-Cola, and the problem appears to be related to packaging rather than an actual shortage of fruit. Coca-Cola has indicated that aluminum cans are sourced from a limited number of suppliers, and there is a tight capacity for beverage cans in North America, with plants operating at 92% to 93% utilization.

The supply chain issues are notably affecting Delta more than JetBlue, as the latter has managed to adapt by using alternative packaging for apple juice. The high demand for cans during peak summer months exacerbates the situation, with can manufacturers currently expanding capacity, a process that is both time-consuming and capital-intensive.

Airlines have attempted to double cater from stations with greater supply and augment supply from within airport terminals, but these measures are not sustainable at scale. There is no clear timeline for when regular supply will be restored.

Interestingly, other major airlines such as American, United, and Southwest, which also carry Minute Maid juice, have not reported similar disruptions, suggesting the issue may be more specific to Delta and JetBlue's supply chains.