The Inflight Catering Market report segments the industry into Meals (Bakery and Confectionary, Beverages, Other Food Types), Flight Type (Full-service Carriers, Low-cost Carriers, Other Flight Types), Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, First-class), Catering Type (Retail on Board, Classic Catering), Flight Duration (Long Haul, Short Haul), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and more).

The global inflight catering market revenue is estimated to reach USD 35.75 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 11.32% (2024–2032). India's rapid growth is boosting regional aviation. Domestic air traffic surged by 24.2% in 2022-23, reaching 123.3 million passengers. Japan and South Korea also play key roles in the Asia Pacific's aviation dominance.
Report Scope:

The India Inflight Catering Market is Segmented by Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class), Flight Service Type (Full-Service Carriers, Low-Cost Carriers, and Hybrid and Other Flight Service Types), and Food Type (Meals, Bakery and Confectionery, Beverages, and Other Food Types). The Report Offers Market Size and Forecast for all the Above Segments in Value (USD).

Inflight Catering Market size was valued at USD 17.16 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 25.88 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.58% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

Global Inflight Catering Market Drivers

The market drivers for the Inflight Catering Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Growth in Air Passenger Traffic: The in-flight catering business is significantly influenced by the steady increase in air passenger traffic, which is fueled by factors including rising disposable incomes, an expanding middle class, and an increase in tourism. The market is driven by an increase in the demand for in-flight amenities and meals as more people travel by air. Focus on Passenger Experience: In an effort to obtain a competitive advantage, airlines are placing a greater emphasis on improving the overall passenger experience. High-quality food and services may greatly increase passenger happiness and loyalty, which is why in-flight catering is so important. As a result, airlines are making investments to raise the caliber, diversity, and presentation of their onboard meals. Preferences of Airlines for Outsourcing: Rather than handling their catering internally, several airlines would rather contract with specialized businesses. Airlines may lower expenses, boost productivity, and get access to a greater variety of food alternatives through outsourcing. Because of this, there is a growing need for specialty in-flight food services, which is propelling market expansion. Regulatory Requirements: Aviation authorities are subject to stringent laws concerning the safety and hygienic practices of food served during flights. Because of the specialized knowledge and infrastructure needed to comply with these rules, airlines must rely on reputable catering businesses. Therefore, one of the main factors driving the in-flight catering market is the requirement to comply with regulations. Increasing aviation Competition: To stand out from the competition and draw in more customers, airlines compete fiercely in the aviation sector. One way airlines try to differentiate themselves is by providing excellent in-flight meals and services. Airlines are concentrating more on enhancing their in-flight catering options as competition heats up, which is propelling market expansion. Innovations in Food Packaging and Delivery: The industry for in-flight catering has seen a radical transformation because to developments in food packaging and delivery technologies. These developments enable airlines to provide customers with a greater selection of freshly prepared, premium meals—even on lengthy trips. Improving the whole in-flight dining experience, improved food packaging also contributes to the preservation of food quality and freshness. Shifting Customer Preferences: Over time, travelers' tastes for meals on flights have changed. Passengers today have a wider range of food choices and restrictions in addition to being more health-conscious. In response to these shifting consumer tastes, airlines are expanding their selection of in-flight meal options to include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and organic options. The in-flight catering sector is growing and innovating to meet these changing consumer requirements.

It is estimated that in 2027, the global airline catering services market will amount to approximately **** billion U.S. dollars. Airline catering industry in the U.S. As low-cost carriers (LCCs) entered the aviation market, the traditional aviation services got disrupted immensely. One of the impacts of the structural changes within the aviation industry was on the airline catering services because traditional air carriers started to rethink the in-flight food provisioning. Despite all, people need food or some basic nourishments during a travel journey. In upcoming years, slow but steady growth in global airline catering services is expected. In 2019, the market size of the U.S. airline catering services was roughly *** billion U.S. dollars. During that period, this industry employed over ****** people in the U.S. Enterprises in the U.S. air catering market Since 2017, the number of firms in this market has experienced a growth path even amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Each large air carrier has a main in-flight food provider, mostly owned vertically within their own business unit. In 2019, there were approximately *** businesses in the U.S. airline catering services market to supply the aviation industry with food. In that same year, the U.S. airline catering service enterprises incurred approximately *** billion U.S. dollars in wage costs.

The North America In-Flight Catering Market report segments the industry into Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, First Class), Flight Service Type (Full-Service Carrier, Low-Cost Carrier, Hybrid and Other Flight Types), and Geography (United States, Canada). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

In-flight Catering Services Market size was valued at around USD 22 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach around USD 34 billion by 2030 along with a CAGR of 9.12%.

• The global industry was valued at US$ 16.9 Bn in 2023
• It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2034 and reach US$ 32.9 Bn by the end of 2034

Market Introduction

In-flight Catering Services Market Regional Insights

In-flight Catering Services Market Snapshot

Snapshot img

In-Flight Catering Services Market Size 2025-2029

The in-flight catering services market size is valued to increase USD 7.65 billion, at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2024 to 2029. Increase in air passenger traffic globally will drive the in-flight catering services market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 35% growth during the forecast period.
By Product - Food segment was valued at USD 5.51 billion in 2023
By Type - Economy class segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 222.81 million
Market Future Opportunities: USD 7646.90 million
CAGR from 2024 to 2029 : 7.7%

Market Summary

The market experiences steady expansion, fueled by the increasing number of air passengers worldwide. According to data from the International Air Transport Association, global air passenger traffic grew by 6.5% in 2019, driving demand for high-quality in-flight catering services. This trend is further accentuated by the emergence of meal ordering devices, enabling passengers to customize their meals before takeoff. In-flight catering providers face challenges such as fluctuating airline ticket prices and the need to maintain food quality during long-haul flights. To meet these demands, companies invest in advanced technologies, including automated meal preparation systems and temperature-controlled storage solutions. However, the market faces challenges, including the need for companies to maintain strict adherence to food safety regulations to ensure passenger satisfaction and safety.
Additionally, the market is witnessing a shift towards sustainable and healthier meal options, reflecting evolving consumer preferences. The market is expected to reach significant value in the coming years, as airlines continue to prioritize passenger comfort and satisfaction. Despite the challenges, the market remains a dynamic and innovative space, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer expectations.

What will be the Size of the In-Flight Catering Services Market during the forecast period?

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How is the In-Flight Catering Services Market Segmented?

The in-flight catering services industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Food
  Beverages


Type

  Economy class
  Business class
  First class


Cusine Type

  Western
  Asian
  Middle Eastern
  Other


Flight Duration

  Short-Haul
  Long-Haul


Geography

  North America

    US
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Norway
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The food segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is experiencing a steady growth trajectory, with the food segment being a significant contributor. As competition intensifies, airlines differentiate themselves through food quality and offerings. In February 2024, Qatar Airways and gategroup announced a strategic partnership, which includes a Business Management Agreement focusing on passenger dining experiences, sourcing and procurement, health-conscious menus, and sustainability initiatives. This collaboration underscores the evolving nature of the market. The food segment encompasses a diverse range of offerings, including meals, breakfast items, pre-packed meals, fresh snacks, and fruits. Airline catering contracts prioritize cost optimization strategies through inventory management systems, temperature-controlled packaging, and transportation coordination.

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The Food segment was valued at USD 5.51 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Allergen control measures, staff training programs, and food safety audits ensure quality assurance systems meet stringent standards. Premium meal services cater to passenger preferences, with customized meal options and dietary restriction management. Food service technology, such as meal pre-assembly processes and order fulfillment efficiency, streamlines operations. Hygiene compliance standards, packaging material selection, and crew meal provisions are essential components of the market. In-flight menu planning, including nutritional information accuracy and inflight beverage service, contribute to overall passenger satisfaction metrics. Production capacity planning, service standards compliance, special meal handling, and sustainability initiatives further enhance the market landscape. The market's focus on

The North America Inflight Catering Market, valued at USD 3.48 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a 12.4% CAGR from 2025-2030, driven by key trends and opportunities.

The global inflight catering market value reached around USD 15.21 Billion in 2024. The increase in air travel has significantly boosted demand for inflight catering services. For example, the rise in long-haul and non-stop flights has led to a greater need for quality meal services onboard. As a result, the industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.60% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to attain a value of USD 23.85 Billion by 2034. Airlines are investing in premium catering options to differentiate themselves in a competitive market, responding to consumer preferences for healthier and more diverse food choices.

The Europe Inflight Catering Market report segments the industry into Food Type (Meals, Bakery and Confectionary, Beverages, Other Food Types), Flight Type (Full-service Carriers, Low-cost Carriers), Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, First Class) and Geography (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

Inflight Catering Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global inflight catering market size reached USD 18.7 billion in 2024, driven by the resurgence of air travel and evolving passenger expectations. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 31.8 billion by 2033. This robust growth is underpinned by rising international travel, increasing demand for premium in-flight experiences, and the ongoing expansion of airline fleets globally.

Several core growth factors are propelling the inflight catering market forward. The recovery of the aviation sector post-pandemic has been instrumental, with airlines reinstating and expanding routes, leading to a surge in passenger numbers globally. As airlines compete to differentiate themselves, there is a heightened focus on enhancing the onboard experience, making inflight catering a critical aspect of customer satisfaction and loyalty. The increasing prevalence of long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights has also necessitated the provision of high-quality, diverse, and nutritious meal options to meet the needs of increasingly discerning travelers. This has led to significant investments in menu innovation, including the introduction of regionally inspired cuisines, health-conscious choices, and dietary-specific offerings, all of which contribute to the market’s expansion.

Technological advancements are further shaping the inflight catering market landscape. Airlines and catering providers are leveraging digital platforms for pre-ordering meals, personalizing passenger preferences, and optimizing supply chain management. The integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics allows for better prediction of passenger demand, reduction of food wastage, and enhancement of operational efficiency. Additionally, the adoption of eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing practices aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility within the aviation industry. These innovations not only enhance the passenger experience but also support airlines in meeting their sustainability targets, thereby driving long-term market growth.

Another significant growth driver is the evolving demographic and psychographic profile of air travelers. With a rising number of millennials and Gen Z passengers, there is an increased demand for unique, customizable, and high-quality inflight dining options. These passengers are more likely to value health, sustainability, and authenticity in their food choices, prompting airlines to collaborate with celebrity chefs, renowned restaurants, and local food producers. The trend towards premiumization is particularly evident in business and first-class cabins, where gourmet meals and exclusive beverage selections are becoming standard. This shift is not limited to full-service carriers; even low-cost and hybrid airlines are enhancing their inflight catering offerings to attract a broader customer base and increase ancillary revenue streams.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific continues to be the fastest-growing market for inflight catering, fueled by rapid urbanization, a burgeoning middle class, and the expansion of both full-service and low-cost carriers. North America and Europe remain mature markets, characterized by high passenger volumes and a strong focus on service quality and innovation. The Middle East, with its strategic geographic location and world-class airlines, is also witnessing robust growth in inflight catering services. Latin America and Africa are emerging markets, showing steady progress as air connectivity improves and tourism rebounds. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, shaped by local consumer preferences, regulatory environments, and competitive dynamics.

Offering Analysis

The inflight catering market by offering is segmented into meal, bakery & confectionery, beverages, and others, each playing a distinct role in shaping the passenger dining experience. The meal segment remains the corne

In 2020, the meal segment in the airline catering market accounted for over ************ U.S. dollars worldwide. By 2027, the global airline catering market is expected to reach approximately **** billion U.S. dollars.

The Asia Pacific Inflight Catering Services Market report segments the industry into Food Type (Meals, Bakery And Confectionary, Beverages, Other Food Types), Flight Type (Full-Service Carriers, Low-Cost Carriers), Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, First Class), and Geography (India, China, Japan, South Korea, Rest Of Asia-Pacific). Get five years of historical data and five-year forecasts.

Inflight Catering Market size is growing with a CAGR of 7.71% in the prediction period and it crosses USD 46.42 Bn in 2032from USD 27.6 Bn in 2025.

The Asia-Pacific And Middle-East Inflight Catering Market report segments the industry into Food Type (Meals, Bakery And Confectionary, Beverages, Other Food Types), Flight Type (Full-Service Carriers, Low-Cost Carriers, Hybrid And Other Flight Types), Aircraft Seating Class (Economy Class, Business Class, First Class), and Geography (Asia-Pacific, Middle-East). Get five years of historical data and forecasts.

The global inflight catering market is booming, projected to reach $31.91 billion by 2033, driven by post-pandemic travel resurgence and evolving passenger preferences. Learn about key trends, market segments (full-service, LCC, classes), leading companies, and regional growth in this comprehensive analysis.

Discover the booming European in-flight catering market! Our analysis reveals a €3.86B market in 2025, projected to reach €7.2B by 2033 with a 7.21% CAGR. Explore key trends, drivers, restraints, and leading companies shaping this dynamic industry. Recent developments include: January 2022: Scandinavian Airlines partnered with Newrest for its inflight catering services. Under the agreement, the company would provide inflight catering services to SAS in the capital cities of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark., July 2021: Gategroup acquired LSG Group's European operations from Deutsche Lufthansa AG (Lufthansa). The transaction comprised LSG's inflight catering operations in Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Spain and the global equipment business trading under the SPIRIANT brand.. Notable trends are: The Bakery and Confectionery Segment is Expected to Dominate the Market During the Forecast Period.

The Asia-Pacific and Middle-East inflight catering market, valued at $7.48 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.05% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The burgeoning air travel industry within these regions, particularly the rise of low-cost carriers expanding their routes and passenger numbers, significantly boosts demand for inflight meals and beverages. Furthermore, increasing disposable incomes and a growing preference for diverse and high-quality inflight food options are stimulating market growth. The Asia-Pacific region, with its large and rapidly growing population, particularly in countries like China and India, is expected to dominate the market share. However, stringent regulations regarding food safety and hygiene standards, along with fluctuating fuel prices impacting airline operational costs and potentially impacting catering budgets, pose challenges to market growth. The increasing adoption of sustainable practices within the airline industry, including reducing food waste and sourcing sustainable ingredients, is another emerging trend shaping the market. Competition among established players and new entrants is intensifying, pushing innovation in menu offerings and service delivery to attract customers. The market segmentation by food type (meals, bakery, beverages), flight type (full-service, low-cost), and aircraft seating class (economy, business, first) allows for tailored catering solutions that cater to different passenger needs and budgets. The Middle East, though holding a smaller market share compared to Asia-Pacific, demonstrates significant potential due to the high volume of international travel through its major hubs. The growth in this region is linked to the expansion of airline networks and increasing tourism. However, cultural preferences and religious dietary restrictions significantly influence the types of food offered, requiring specialized catering solutions. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large multinational catering companies and regional players, with a focus on providing high-quality service and adapting to the specific needs of diverse airlines and customer bases. Future growth will likely be driven by continued investments in technological advancements, improved logistics, and a greater emphasis on personalization and customization within inflight catering. The adoption of technology in areas such as pre-ordering and customized meal selection will likely play a significant role in enhancing the passenger experience and driving future market growth. Recent developments include: August 2023: TajSATS Air Catering Limited opened a new kitchen at the newly inaugurated Manohar International Airport at Mopa in Goa., June 2023: Emirates Flight Catering signs its first deal with GMG to provide ready-to-go meals. This sector is expanding rapidly in the UAE due to various factors like changing demographics, increasing urbanization, and a growing number of working professionals and expatriates.. Notable trends are: Full-service Carriers Segment is Anticipated to Show Significant Growth During the Forecasted Period.