In aviation, weight is cost. Every gram of weight on an aircraft requires fuel to lift and move. Bone China contains 30% to 50% calcium phosphate (derived from animal bone ash). This creates a unique crystalline structure during firing that makes it significantly stronger and tougher than other ceramic material in general. It is less likely to chip or crack when the galley cart hits a bump or during turbulent flight. This saves the airline thousands of dollars in fuel over the course of a year.
Airplane cabins use specific LED spectrums (often shifting from "warm" to "cool" to help with jet lag). Bone China has a warm, milky whiteness that looks "expensive" even under artificial light. When held to the light, you can see the shadow of your hand through the plate. This translucency is a psychological cue for "High Luxury" that passengers recognize immediately. It separates the First Class experience from the "plastic and tray" feel of Economy.
