Cubana de Aviación will begin operating two weekly direct flights between Frankfurt and Havana starting in December 2025, with onboard catering provided by GIC International Catering.
The service, operated with an Airbus A330-200, will run Wednesdays with a stopover in Holguín and Saturdays, offering the only nonstop connection between Germany and Cuba during the winter 2025/2026 season.
The partnership expands GIC’s client portfolio as the Kelsterbach-based caterer celebrates its 25th anniversary. The company currently produces up to 5,000 meals a day for 21 airlines and will now provide menus with Cuban influences for the national carrier of Cuba.
New Culinary Partnership
Passengers on the Frankfurt–Havana route can expect freshly prepared meals designed to enhance the long-haul travel experience. Options include sous-vide cooked beef short ribs with truffled potato casserole, cod in a walnut mustard crust with baby vegetables, and boletus ravioli in creamy pesto sauce. GIC will add Cuban-inspired elements to its offerings for Cubana’s passengers.
“For 25 years now, we have been combining highest quality with individual service and are delighted to expand our international network,” said Göksel Yildirim, CEO of GIC International Catering.
“From December, Cubana passengers can look forward to authentic, freshly prepared menus with a Cuban twist which we will create with attention to detail. Our goal is not to solely deliver a good meal but to create real culinary delight – even in 10,000 meters altitude.”
Expanding Beyond Frankfurt
Founded in Kelsterbach near Frankfurt Airport, GIC International Catering has grown into a specialist for bespoke airline catering and event services. The family-owned business operates a 2,500 square meter production site with state-of-the-art logistics and employs 170 staff. Its output ranges from gourmet menus for Business Class and VIP passengers to hot meals for Economy Class and snacks tailored to budget carriers.
In addition to serving airlines, GIC also supplies schools and private events with fresh meals. Over the years, its clientele has included high-profile passengers such as Naomi Campbell, Beyoncé, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and members of the Saudi royal family.
The new collaboration underscores the importance of culinary services in enhancing the passenger experience on long-haul routes. For Cubana, the Frankfurt–Havana flights strengthen its presence in Europe while providing a direct travel option for German tourists and business travelers heading to Cuba. For GIC, the deal reflects its continued expansion into international markets at a milestone moment in the company’s history.
Further information about GIC International Catering is available at www.gic-international.com.
