Every time you board a long-haul flight from India to the UK, you’re stepping into a multi-billion-dollar industry. The in-flight catering market is estimated at over USD 20.7 billion in 2025, with predictions to nearly USD 35 billion by 2034 as airlines push for better food experiences in the sky. Amid rising cost pressures, flavor challenges at altitude, and evolving passenger demands for plant-based and regional menus, the world of airline meals is transforming fast. So before you buckle up, let’s explore what kinds of meals await you, what choices you can pre-order, and how to claim the food experience you deserve on your India to UK flight.
Airline Meals on India to UK Flights: Everything You Should Know
If you are flying from India to the UK, one of the biggest questions that comes to mind is: what food will I get on board? Long-haul flights are not just about reaching your destination. They are also about comfort, and inflight meals play a big role in that. The good news is that most airlines serving the India–UK route offer much more than just a basic tray of food. From regional Indian dishes to dine-on-demand menus, you actually have plenty of options.
Are meals included on India to UK flights?
Yes, meals are included on all full-service airlines that fly long-haul between India and the UK. If you are flying British Airways, Air India, Virgin Atlantic, Vistara, Emirates, or Qatar Airways, you will get at least one main meal and often a second service before landing. The number of meals depends on the flight duration and time of departure. Budget carriers like IndiGo, which recently launched long-haul flights to Europe, also provide hot meals but often as a pre-booked option.
British Airways inflight meals: pre-order and Dine Anytime
When you fly British Airways from India to London, you get a proper three-course meal in economy and premium economy. In business and first class, you can enjoy their Dine Anytime service where you choose when to eat. A smart tip is to use the airline’s pre-order meal option, which allows you to select your main course up to 24 hours before departure. This way you are sure to get the dish you want, whether it is a chicken curry or a vegetarian option.
Air India meals: regional menus and festival specials
Air India has always been known for serving Indian food on its long-haul flights. Expect choices like dal, paneer curry, biryani, and hot breads along with an international option. On flights to London, you will often see both Western and Indian main courses. Air India also introduces special menus during festivals. For example, during Navratri, they serve a fasting-friendly menu with satvik dishes. If you want a special meal such as Jain, diabetic, or vegan, you should request it at least 24 hours before departure.
Vistara meals: a taste of India in the sky
Vistara, India’s premium carrier, has taken inflight dining to another level on its London routes. In business class, you can expect regional delicacies like masala uttapam or chole with puri, served with a modern touch. Even in economy, you will get a well-prepared hot meal that reflects Indian flavors. For many passengers, this feels like carrying a taste of home all the way to Heathrow.
Emirates and Qatar Airways: global menus with regional touches
If you are connecting through Dubai or Doha, you are in for a treat. Emirates is famous for offering multicourse meals in every cabin and has even expanded its vegan menu options. You can check the menu for your specific flight on their website before you fly. Qatar Airways offers dine-on-demand in business class, which means you can eat whenever you want during the flight. Both airlines also feature Indian dishes on flights departing from India, so you are likely to see options like chicken masala or dal along with international favorites.
Virgin Atlantic: British classics with global flavors
Virgin Atlantic adds a British touch to its long-haul dining. Economy passengers get hearty meals with dessert, while Premium and Upper Class travellers enjoy multi-course dining with wine pairings. On India routes, the airline often includes an Indian vegetarian or non-vegetarian dish in the choices, so you are not left craving familiar flavors.
Special meals: how to request Jain, kosher, halal, or vegan food on India-UK Flights
Almost every airline on the India–UK route offers a wide range of special meals. These include vegetarian, Jain, kosher, halal, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and children’s meals. The golden rule is that you must request these at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Do not wait until you are on board, because cabin crew cannot always arrange it at the last moment.
Tips to guarantee the meal you want
- Pre-order your meal if the airline allows it. This is the best way to make sure you get your choice.
- Book a special meal in advance if you have dietary restrictions.
- Check your airline’s website to preview the menu for your route.
- Carry a small snack in case your preferred option runs out, especially in economy.
Airline meals on India to UK flights have come a long way. Today, you can expect thoughtfully prepared dishes, regional Indian flavors, and the convenience of pre-order and dine-on-demand options. Whether you fly British Airways for its Dine Anytime service, Air India for its festival menus, Vistara for regional specialties, or Emirates and Qatar for global dining, there is something for everyone. The key is to plan ahead, pre-order when possible, and enjoy the journey with the right meal on your tray.