Inflight Catering Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Food Offering Type, Flight Service Type (Full-Service Carriers and Low-Cost Carriers), Aircraft Seating Class, and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and M

The global inflight catering market size is expected to reach USD 32.09 billion by 2034, according to a new study by Polaris Market Research. The report “Inflight Catering Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Food Offering Type, Flight Service Type (Full-Service Carriers and Low-Cost Carriers), Aircraft Seating Class, and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa) – Market Forecast, 2025–2034” gives a detailed insight into current market dynamics and provides analysis on future market growth.

The inflight catering market is a crucial segment of the aviation industry, providing meals, beverages, and onboard services to passengers on domestic and international flights. Airlines partner with catering service providers to offer diverse meal options that enhance passenger experience and meet dietary preferences. The market is driven by several key factors, including the increasing number of air travelers due to rising disposable incomes, expanding airline networks, and the growth of low-cost carriers.

Additionally, the demand for high-quality and customized meal options, including healthier and organic food choices, is influencing catering strategies. Technological advancements in food preservation, packaging, and automation improve efficiency and reduce waste, further supporting market growth. Stringent aviation food safety regulations and sustainability initiatives are pushing airlines and catering providers to adopt eco-friendly packaging and reduce food waste.

The growth of low-cost carriers (LCCs) has made air travel more accessible to a wider audience, increasing the number of budget-conscious passengers. Although LCCs typically offer fewer inflight services, many have started offering meal options for purchase. By introducing affordable meal choices for passengers at competitive prices, LCCs have boosted the demand for efficient and budget-friendly catering solutions. This expansion carriers ensures that inflight catering services are available across various price points, thereby driving the inflight catering market growth.

Inflight Catering Market Report Highlights

Based on flight service type, the full-service carriers segment dominated the inflight catering market in 2024 as passengers increasingly seek a more comfortable and premium travel experience.

By food offering, the meal segment is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period as passengers are increasingly looking for better and more diverse food options, prompting airlines to focus on offering high-quality meals.

North America dominated the inflight catering market in 2024, driven by a high demand for premium services and diverse meal options.

Asia Pacific is expected to record a significant share during the forecast period, driven by rising middle class and increased air travel, especially in countries like China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

A few of the global key market players are ANA HOLDINGS INC.; dnata; DO & CO Aktiengesellschaft; Emirates Flight Catering; Flying Food Group, LLC; Gate Group (Gate gourmet); LSG Lufthansa Service Holdings AG; Newrest International Group; SATS Ltd.; and Servair SA.

Polaris market research has segmented the inflight catering market report on the basis of food offering type, flight service type, aircraft seating class, and region:

By Food Offering Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020–2034)

§ Meal

§ Bakery & Confectionery

§ Beverages

§ Others

By Flight Service Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020–2034)

§ Full-Service Carriers

§ Low-Cost Carriers

By Aircraft Seating Class Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020–2034)

§ Economy Class

§ Business Class

§ First Class

§ Premium Economy Class

By Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2020–2034)

North America

• US
• Canada

• Germany
• UK
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Russia
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

• China
• India
• Japan
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Australia
• Rest of Asia Pacific

• Argentina
• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• Israel
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa