Global Inflight Catering Market Expected to Reach USD 18.7 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Global Inflight Catering Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global inflight catering market size was valued at USD 13.8 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 18.7 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.39% from 2025 to 2033.

The global rise in air travel, driven by growing disposable incomes, tourism, and business travel, has expanded the demand for inflight meals and beverages. With more passengers taking to the skies, airlines are investing in quality catering services to enhance customer satisfaction. For instance, in January 2024, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) convened a meeting with leading flight caterers and airlines to evaluate and enhance the existing food safety protocols within the airline catering industry. The objective of the meeting was to identify areas requiring improvement and reinforce the commitment to providing passengers with safe and high-quality inflight meals. Airlines are increasingly prioritizing customer experience to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

The rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) has created the demand for a la carte and pay-per-meal inflight catering options, providing passengers with the flexibility to choose. This shift encourages partnerships with catering companies to offer affordable yet appealing meals. For instance, in February 2024, Qatar Airways and gategroup announced a new catering partnership to elevate inflight dining, structured through a Business Management Agreement that will see collaboration on passenger dining experiences, sourcing and procurement, healthy eating, as well as sustainability. Qatar Airways' commitment to global aviation excellence will be reinforced by gategroup’s expertise in menu design, culinary concepts, and operational excellence. Innovations in meal packaging, onboard storage solutions, and real-time menu customization have improved operational efficiency and reduced food waste. Technology integration is helping airlines streamline their catering processes and offer tailored services. Catering companies are adapting menus to reflect regional tastes and preferences, creating a more personalized inflight dining experience. The demand for eco-friendly packaging and sourcing sustainable ingredients is growing, aligning with airline sustainability goals and passenger awareness of environmental issues.

Global Inflight Catering Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share due to the increasing air travel demand, expanding low-cost carriers, growing tourism, and rising passenger expectations for diverse, high-quality meal options catering to regional tastes and dietary preferences.

North America Inflight Catering Market Trends:

Higher demand for air travel, large business travel, and other premium offerings by full-service carriers are primarily driving the market growth across North America. Other major factors influencing the growth of the market include increases in low-cost carriers, airline partnerships with local food brands, growing interest in food preferences, and technological advancements in customized meals and sustainability. For instance, in July 2024, Mainline Aviation, an in-flight catering service company, announced its new partnership with SAS Scandinavian Airlines to provide in-flight catering services for their transatlantic route from Atlanta to Copenhagen.

Asia-Pacific Inflight Catering Market Trends:

The rise of air travel due to economic growth, higher disposable incomes, and the increasing influx of tourists continues to fuel the market in the Asia Pacific region. The market demand is also stimulated further by varied culinary preferences across the region, especially where low-cost airline carrier business is booming and the priority focus from airlines towards enhancing passenger experience through region-specific and premium meal choices. For example, in July 2024, Japan Airlines successfully launched its First Class service with gategourmet on the non-stop route from Sydney (SYD) to Tokyo Haneda (HND). This marks a significant enhancement in JAL’s premium offerings, demonstrating a commitment to exceptional service, aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and attracting a discerning clientele.

Europe Inflight Catering Market Trends:

Europe has an extensive international market that is characterized by high passenger demand for quality and diversity in meal offerings which is creating a positive market outlook for the region. Budget airlines' growth, adherence to eco-friendly practices, and focus on local and gourmet cuisine increase momentum for market growth within the European region.

Latin America Inflight Catering Market Trends:

The market in Latin America is mainly driven by increasing air travel, both regional and international; the rise of low-cost carriers; and the greater incidence of tourism. Its airlines are concerned with providing cultural meal offerings and low-cost services to add value to the consumer experience, while economic growth is supporting the demand for better catering solutions.

Middle East and Africa Inflight Catering Market Trends:

In the Middle East and Africa, the market is driven by the region's booming tourism, expanding air travel hubs, and increasing demand for luxury services. Airlines emphasize high-quality, gourmet meals and region-specific options to cater to diverse cultural preferences while growing low-cost carriers also impact market dynamics.

Top Companies Leading in the Inflight Catering Industry

Some of the leading inflight catering market companies include AAS Catering Co. Ltd, Abby’s Catering, Cathay Pacific Catering Services (H.K.) Ltd. (Cathay Pacific Airways), DO & CO Aktiengesellschaft, Emirates Flight Catering (The Emirates Group), Flying Food Group, Gategroup, Jetfinity, KLM Catering Services Schiphol, LSG Sky Chefs (Lufthansa AG), Sats Ltd. (Singapore Airlines), Saudi Airlines Catering, and Universal Weather and Aviation Inc., among many others.

In February 2024, Emirates Flight Catering, one of the world’s largest inflight catering operations, fully acquired Bustanica, which was formerly known as Emirates Crop One. Busticana, although not a household name, is the largest indoor vertical farm and is located close to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) at Dubai World Central.

Global Inflight Catering Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the food type, the market has been categorized into meals, bakery and confectionary, beverages, and others, wherein meals represent the leading segment. Meals dominate the market as they are essential for passenger satisfaction on medium to long-haul flights. Airlines prioritize meals to enhance the travel experience, cater to diverse dietary needs, and align with regional preferences. Their inclusion also reinforces brand value and meets customer expectations for quality service.
• Based on the flight service type, the market is classified into full-service carriers and low-cost carriers, amongst which low-cost carriers dominates the market. Low-cost carriers lead the market due to their high passenger volumes and tailored meal offerings. They adopt a pay-per-meal model, allowing passengers to purchase affordable, customizable food options. This approach increases ancillary revenue for airlines while providing flexibility, making catering services integral to their business strategies and market success.
• On the basis of the aircraft seating class, the market has been divided into economy class, business class, and first class. Economy class holds the largest inflight catering market due to its high passenger volume, driving demand for affordable and standardized meal options. Business class dominates with premium meal offerings and enhanced services, catering to travelers seeking comfort and a superior dining experience. First class captures a significant share by emphasizing luxury dining with gourmet meals, personalized menus, and exclusive catering services for high-paying passengers.