Top 10 Airlines with Free Meals on Long Flights

Complimentary In-Flight Dining: A Rare Treat for Economy Travelers

While we often scrutinize the quality of food in restaurants, our expectations shift dramatically once we board an airplane. In-flight dining experiences can vary greatly, and one of the most significant factors influencing our satisfaction is whether the meal is included with the ticket or not. In recent years, many U.S. airlines have reduced their in-flight offerings to cut costs, making free meals a rarity. However, there are still some airlines that continue to offer complimentary meals, especially on long-haul flights.

American Airlines: A Full Meal on Long-Distance Flights

American Airlines may not always be the top-ranked domestic airline, but it still offers a variety of perks. One of its standout features is the complimentary meal service on long-haul international flights. Whether you're traveling to Asia, Australia, Europe, New Zealand, the Middle East, or certain South American cities, you'll receive a hot dish along with snacks and drinks. For transcontinental flights within the U.S., you'll get complimentary meals, but not drinks. This service is available on select routes, including those departing from major airports like JFK, LAX, BOS, and MIA.

United Airlines: Complimentary Meals on International Routes

United Airlines also continues to provide complimentary meals on long-haul international flights. Travelers flying from the U.S. to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the South Pacific, and parts of Latin America will enjoy a full meal, including bread, salad, main course, and dessert. You’ll also get free house beer and wine. However, on domestic flights over 300 miles, you’ll only receive free snacks and soft drinks. If you’re looking for premium options, you can purchase them, but they come at an additional cost.

Delta Air Lines: Free Meals on International Flights

Delta Air Lines has consistently ranked as one of the top U.S. airlines, and its in-flight dining experience reflects this. On international long-haul flights, all passengers, regardless of class, receive complimentary meals and alcoholic beverages. In economy, you can choose from an appetizer, main course, and dessert, while in Delta One, you get a pre-departure beverage. Domestic flights, however, offer fewer options, with free meals only available in Delta One and limited to longer routes.

Alaska Airlines: Mixed Reviews on In-Flight Food

Alaska Airlines is known for its reliable service and loyalty program, but its in-flight food has received mixed reviews. While First Class passengers enjoy complimentary meals, Main Cabin and Premium Class travelers must pay for their meals. The options vary depending on the flight distance, with some items only available on longer routes. Drinks are free in all classes, but alcoholic beverages are not included in economy.

JetBlue Airways: Farm-to-Tray-Table Meals on Transatlantic Flights

JetBlue is praised for its legroom and friendly service, and its in-flight dining is no exception. On transatlantic flights, passengers in Main Cabin receive a complimentary farm-to-tray-table meal curated by New York’s Dig Inn. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options are available, and all travelers, regardless of class, enjoy free wine, beer, and spirits. Domestic flights, however, offer a more basic selection of snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

Hawaiian Airlines: Island-Inspired Meals

Hawaiian Airlines takes pride in its island-inspired cuisine, offering complimentary meals on routes between North America, the South Pacific, and Asia. Passengers in economy can enjoy dishes like fusilli pasta and Chicken Adobo, while First Class guests receive a more extensive menu. Drinks include complimentary beer and wine, with spirits available for purchase in economy.

Air Canada: Complimentary Beverages and Paid Meals

Air Canada offers free beer and wine on domestic and Caribbean flights, but meals in economy must be purchased. Premium Economy passengers receive free meals on flights lasting two hours or more, while Business Class passengers enjoy a premium meal. On international flights, all classes receive complimentary meals, making it a good option for travelers seeking a more elevated experience.

British Airways: Full Complimentary Meals on Long-Haul Flights

British Airways continues to serve full complimentary meals on long-haul flights from the U.S. to Europe. Passengers can expect a starter, main course, and dessert, along with mid-flight snacks on longer journeys. All passengers receive free tea, coffee, and a selection of alcoholic drinks, including wine and beer.

Qatar Airways: Five-Star Dining Experience

Qatar Airways, rated as one of the best airlines in the world, offers complimentary meals and drinks on all flights, including those from the U.S. Economy passengers can choose from a variety of Middle Eastern and international dishes, while First Class travelers enjoy an on-demand à la carte menu. Even in economy, you’ll find free beer, wine, and spirits.

ANA (All Nippon Airways): Japanese Cuisine on International Flights

ANA, Japan’s largest airline, offers complimentary meals on all international flights, including those between the U.S. and Asia. Economy passengers receive up to two meals, with options ranging from Japanese to Western cuisine. First Class passengers enjoy a wide variety of premium Japanese dishes, and even in economy, you can enjoy Sake and traditional Japanese teas.