Insider Tips for Better Airline Meals

Chicken, beef, or something better? It might seem that airline food is getting stingier over time, with airlines reducing meal sizes, second meals, and even snacks. However, aviation expert John Walton has a few key tricks to get a better airline meal when you fly.

Spend a Bit of Money

First up is the easiest way: spend a few extra dollars. An increasing number of airlines are offering “premium” meals even in economy class, which can often look better than what many business classes serve! For example, on Air France, these selections are called “À la carte,” priced between 12 to 28 euros. They include options created by renowned chef Jean Imbert and feature traditional French, seafood, and Italian menus.

You might even consider purchasing a take-away hamper at the airport. At London Heathrow Terminal 5, Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food restaurant offers a Grab & Go Picnic. Here, you can choose from starters such as crunchy beetroot salad or potted salt beef brisket, and mains like grilled teriyaki salmon or a broccoli and goat cheese tart, followed by dessert options like chocolate tart or a selection of British cheeses.

However, if you’re not in the mood to splurge and are often hungry, there are useful tips for you too.

Skip the Queue

Did you know that if you order a special meal, it will usually be served first? Flight attendants prioritize serving vegetarian, vegan, religious, and other special meals first. This is particularly advantageous on overnight flights, as you can enjoy your meal quickly and get back to the essential task of catching some sleep. Additionally, this approach reduces the risk of your preferred option running out.

Pick Your Cuisine

Now, onto my favorite tip: airline vegetarian food can often be disappointing, but if you enjoy Indian, Bangladeshi, or other South Asian spices, consider selecting the “Asian Vegetarian” meal option. This choice typically offers dishes that cater well to large volumes, making them great for reheating.

Qatar Airways describes it as follows: “This is a vegetarian meal flavored with spices from the Indian sub-continent. It may contain vegetables, fruit, dairy products, spices, and aromas associated with the region. The meal could be mildly spiced. It does not contain meat, poultry, fish, seafood, or eggs.” Similarly, United Airlines states, “This is a non-strict vegetarian meal prepared in an Indian style and may be spicy. It is free from meat, poultry, fish, and shellfish but may include dairy products.”

Ask for Advice

To ensure you receive one of these special meals, it’s important to order at least 24 hours, and preferably more than 48 hours in advance. However, if you forget, simply do what I do: after takeoff and before the crew becomes busy, visit the lavatory and ask a friendly-looking cabin crew member for recommendations on the best options available today.

Bon appétit!