In-flight Meal
In-flight meals refer to food and beverages provided to passengers onboard commercial aircraft. They have become a standard service, especially on international and long-haul routes operated by airlines, playing a significant role in ensuring passenger comfort during travel. The content of in-flight meals varies depending on the airline, travel class, route, and even the cultural or religious backgrounds of the departure and destination points. In recent years, greater emphasis has been placed on food safety, nutritional balance, and the availability of special meals. Strict standards are applied throughout the processes of ingredient procurement, cooking, storage, and serving, with special attention given to the limited space and changes in taste perception at high altitudes. Preparation and loading of in-flight meals take place at airports around the world, including Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Indian Rupee
- Meal Date
- 9/17/2019
- Food Travel Log
- Thai Airways, enough is enough!
Just after serving a luxurious in-flight meal, they serve another sumptuous breakfast upon waking. Are they trying to make you feel Thai by any means? But I devoured it all, how frustrating!
How dare you turn my India mood into a Thailand mood! I will get revenge by using Thai Airways again. Thai Airways is formidable. Indeed, Thailand is the best.
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview of In-flight Meals
In-flight meals are meals provided to airline passengers, and are a common service especially on long-haul and international flights. They have evolved alongside developments in the modern airline industry, utilizing refrigeration/freezing technology, vacuum packaging, and attention to nutritional balance. The contents of in-flight meals vary by airline, cabin class, flight duration, and points of departure and arrival. Menus often reflect local food culture, seasonal ingredients, and cater to religious or health-related requests.
In-flight Meals on Thai Airways International
Thai Airways International, known as Thailand’s flag carrier, is famous for highlighting Thai culture through its in-flight meals. The airline boasts high-quality services under its “Royal Orchid Service,” and is known for offering a wide variety of choices even in economy class. On flights departing from India, distinctive Thai seasonings and menu innovations are evident. In addition to traditional Thai dishes such as curry, pad thai, and gapao, international breakfast options and vegetarian-friendly menus are also available.
Composition and Serving Style
In-flight meals are designed with limited space and altered taste sensitivities at high altitude in mind, so high-calorie and strongly flavored ingredients are often chosen. Meals are typically served using vacuum packs, heatable aluminum containers, and sealed containers, enabling hot meals to be served quickly. Breakfast commonly includes bread or croissants, yogurt, butter, and fruit salad, forming a standard set even in economy class.
Characteristics of New Delhi Departures
On international flights departing from Indira Gandhi International Airport, particularly routes to Thailand such as Bangkok, unique menus are provided that blend Indian and Thai food cultures. Since many passengers have a strong preference for vegetarian options, the vegetarian menus are extensive but always include Thai elements, such as curry sauces, spices, or Thai fruits. To cater to multinational passengers, Western-style breakfasts featuring fruit, dairy products (like yogurt), and bakery items are also offered alongside these options.
History and Evolution of In-flight Meals
The history of in-flight meals dates back to 1919, when sandwiches were served on passenger flights between London and Paris in the UK. With technological progress, menu diversity increased, and hot meals became common by the 1960s. Since the 21st century, there has been greater focus on catering to allergies, religious dietary needs, vegan and gluten-free options, and other customer diversity. Additionally, enhanced luxury and regional characteristics are used by airlines to enhance their brand value. On international, especially long-haul flights, the quality and content of in-flight meals have become a key factor in airline selection.
Promotion of Food Culture by Airlines
Many airlines, including Thai Airways International, serve as ambassadors introducing their national cuisines to the world. Thai Airways actively incorporates traditional Thai dishes and modern fusion cuisine, aiming to provide passengers with a “taste of Thailand in the skies.” The in-flight menu of each airline reflects the country’s food culture, seasonality, and culinary techniques, with careful localization depending on the point of departure and destination.
Summary
In-flight meals have become more than just a means to satisfy hunger—they are now an important part of the travel experience, creating lasting memories. The unique concepts of each airline, regional characteristics by departure and route, and the quality of service all leave a strong impression on passengers. Modern in-flight meals represent the forefront of food culture exchange and service innovation, and their continued evolution is highly anticipated.