The "in-flight meals" that one can savor on an aircraft impart a distinctive sensation, setting them apart from terrestrial dining experiences. In recent years, collaborations with esteemed restaurants and even renowned fast-food chains have elevated the appeal of these airborne repasts. Surely, on international flights, many eagerly anticipate the culinary offerings aloft.
Japan, both domestically and internationally, boasts numerous "rankings" evaluating airline in-flight meals. However, akin to individual palates, even though rankings may provide guidance, they cannot be deemed as the definitive criterion. Over the past 25 years or more, seasoned aviation professionals, who embark on multiple international flights annually, have consistently extolled the airlines and dishes that left them with the memorable declaration, "That in-flight meal was truly exquisite."
The distinctive aerial gastronomy of airlines beyond Japan holds a unique allure
Singapore Airlines' economy class inflight meals are among those that make you exclaim, "This is truly delectable!" For flights departing from and arriving in Japan, you can opt for either "Japanese" or "Western" cuisines. Beyond the satisfying portions and flavors, on round trips from Narita to Los Angeles, each meal includes the indulgence of two servings of "Häagen-Dazs."
While several airlines, including Japan Airlines, distribute Häagen-Dazs in their inflight meals, Singapore Airlines stands as the sole carrier providing two regular-sized portions on every flight.
Turkish Airlines also upholds high standards in the inflight meals served in their economy class. Meticulously crafted main courses, accompanied by warm bread, ensure a substantial offering during the 10-hour journey.
Apart from the two inflight meals, we were also treated to snacks along the way. The temperature of the bread served with the inflight meals is indeed a noteworthy detail.
Turkish Airlines elevates the inflight dining experience by having a dedicated flying chef in the business class—an air hostess with culinary qualifications. Even in the confines of the aircraft, the meal service is presented with the image of a chef. In the business class, you can relish the most refined inflight meals.
On overseas flights, you may encounter dishes that are not part of your daily fare and local cuisines. For instance, Malaysia Airlines offers Malaysian cuisine, Air India provides Indian curry, and Thai Airways serves Thai delicacies.
Speaking of Korean airlines, "bibimbap" stands out as a signature dish in their inflight meals. On both Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, there are ample opportunities to enjoy bibimbap on medium to long-haul flights to and from Korea.
The ingredients for bibimbap, including rice and toppings, are provided separately, allowing passengers to assemble their own bibimbap in the hot stone bowl. A couple of chili sauce packets are always included.
Koreans have a penchant for spicy condiments, and dining in the back rows of the economy class is particularly popular. In addition to bibimbap, "barbecue" is also a prevalent choice.
For Air Tahiti Nui's economy class meals, breakfast features crêpes, waffles, and French bread. As it is a French territory, the bread is exceptionally delightful, leaving behind a simple yet fulfilling memory. The same holds true for Air France, but I find the French-style inflight meals to be of a higher caliber.
EVA Air from Taiwan offers "congee." Drinking congee when feeling fatigued after a long flight is highly satisfying. Moreover, as a Chinese airline, the seasoning is meticulous.
EVA Air has collaborated with Sanrio for many years, and if the inflight meals meet Hello Kitty standards, it adds a playful element to the experience. Similarly, Cathay Pacific Airways in Hong Kong has also served congee on its flights.
EVA Air's economy class inflight meals feature "congee." Indulging in congee is a delightful choice when fatigue sets in after a long-haul flight. Moreover, as it is Chinese cuisine, the seasoning is meticulous.
EVA Air has maintained a longstanding collaboration with Sanrio, and if the inflight meals meet Hello Kitty standards, it adds an entertaining dimension to the experience. Similarly, Cathay Pacific Airways in Hong Kong has also served congee on its flights.
Stable-Tasting Inflight Meals from Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines (JAL) can confidently assert, "The inflight meals here consistently deliver." For those seeking an authentic Japanese flavor profile, choosing JAL is undoubtedly the right decision. JAL's inflight meals are curated by chefs from the First Class restaurant known as the "Sky Restaurant." To savor the quintessence of JAL's inflight meals, the "Japanese cuisine" is highly recommended. The arrangement of small bowls resembling appetizers creates an ambiance akin to a high-end restaurant.
Even in the economy class, the menu features items such as curry rice and fried chicken. Furthermore, inflight meals in collaboration with major fast-food chains are standard, with partner destinations changing seasonally, including names like "KFC," "Mos Burger," and "Tanita."
Mos Burger, in particular, crafts ingredients within bread and adds tomato sauce, creating a unique inflight experience that adds excitement to the journey.
When it comes to inflight Japanese cuisine, All Nippon Airways (ANA) takes the lead. Especially noteworthy is the delectable curry offered by ANA.
Having sampled the excellent flavors of Sukiyaki in the business class flying from Frankfurt to Haneda, the seasoning was superb. The miso soup encapsulated the authentic taste of Japan.
In-flight meal rankings by international rating agencies
The rankings for in-flight meals are published globally, and here are some that might be useful. Skytrax is a UK-based airline service research company that ranks and publishes various services such as airlines and airports every year. Among them, there is also a ranking related to in-flight meals, as follows:
Skytrax 2023 Inflight Meal Rankings:
Economy Class:
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
Premium Economy:
- British Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Virgin Atlantic
Business Class:
- Qatar Airways
- All Nippon Airways (ANA)
- Hainan Airlines
First Class:
- Singapore Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Emirates
The meals are distributed in packaged form for ease of distribution within the limited timeframe, especially on overnight flights where portions are smaller. The quality can vary, with occasional unexpectedly delicious experiences and, conversely, some unpleasant memories. Business class is nearly perfect, but the quality in economy class fluctuates.
