Global Inflight Catering Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Global Inflight Catering Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Market Outlook

According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the global inflight catering market size attained approximately USD 27.31 billion in 2023. Aided by the continuous rise in air passenger traffic, the market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% in the forecast period of 2024-2032, reaching a value of around USD 44.24 billion by 2032.

The global inflight catering market is evolving rapidly, driven by a multitude of factors that reflect changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and strategic initiatives by airlines to enhance passenger experience. Inflight catering services, which encompass the preparation and delivery of food and beverages to airline passengers, are becoming a crucial aspect of the aviation industry.

The global inflight catering market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors that reflect evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and strategic initiatives by airline companies. The market dynamics are influenced by the increasing number of air travellers, the rise in premium and business class passengers, and the growing demand for high-quality and diverse meal options.

One of the primary drivers of the inflight catering market growth is the continuous rise in air passenger traffic. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global air passenger numbers are expected to double by 2037, reaching 8.2 billion. This surge in air travel, particularly in emerging economies such as China and India, is fuelling the demand for inflight catering services. Airlines are expanding their routes and frequencies to accommodate the growing number of travellers, which, in turn, boosts the demand for onboard food and beverage services.

Passenger preferences have become more sophisticated and diverse, leading airlines to offer a wide range of culinary options. One of the key inflight catering market trends is the shift towards personalisation and customisation, with airlines providing tailored meal options to cater to various dietary needs and preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal meals. This shift towards diversified menus not only enhances passenger satisfaction but also helps airlines differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market. Premium and business class passengers, in particular, expect high-quality, restaurant-style dining experiences, prompting airlines to collaborate with renowned chefs and culinary experts to create exclusive inflight menus.

Technological advancements play a pivotal role in shaping the inflight catering market expansion. Airlines and catering companies are leveraging technology to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall passenger experience. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are being used to predict passenger preferences, optimise meal planning, and reduce food wastage. Additionally, the integration of inflight connectivity allows passengers to pre-order meals, view menu options, and provide feedback, thus fostering a more interactive and personalised dining experience.

Sustainability has become a critical aspect driving the inflight catering market development, with airlines and catering providers increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices. The reduction of single-use plastics, sourcing of locally produced and organic ingredients, and implementation of waste management programs are some of the measures being taken to minimise the environmental impact. Airlines are also exploring innovative packaging solutions that are biodegradable or recyclable, aligning with the broader global movement towards sustainability. These efforts not only contribute to environmental conservation but also resonate with environmentally conscious passengers, enhancing the airline's brand image.

Strategic partnerships and collaborations between airlines and catering companies are becoming more prevalent, aimed at enhancing the quality and variety of inflight meals. Companies in the global inflight catering market are forging alliances with gourmet chefs, celebrity restaurants, and food and beverage brands to offer unique and premium dining experiences. Such collaborations enable airlines to access specialised culinary expertise and create signature dishes that appeal to discerning travellers. Additionally, partnerships with technology providers help streamline catering operations, from meal preparation to delivery and service, ensuring timely and efficient inflight catering.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the global inflight catering market development, leading to a temporary decline in demand due to travel restrictions and reduced passenger numbers. However, as the aviation industry gradually recovers, the market is witnessing a resurgence. Airlines are implementing stringent health and safety protocols to reassure passengers, including enhanced sanitation measures, contactless meal services, and individually packaged meals to reduce the risk of contamination. The pandemic has also accelerated the adoption of digital solutions, with contactless ordering and payment systems becoming more common in the inflight catering process.

The inflight catering market exhibits regional variations, driven by differences in passenger demographics, culinary preferences, and airline strategies. North America and Europe are mature markets with well-established catering services, characterised by a high demand for premium and business-class meals. In contrast, the Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth, propelled by the increasing number of air travellers preferring low-cost carriers. Middle Eastern airlines, known for their luxurious inflight services, continue to set high standards in inflight catering, offering gourmet meals and exclusive dining experiences. Latin America and Africa, while smaller in market size, are also witnessing growth, with airlines enhancing their catering offerings to attract more passengers.

Market Segmentation

The global inflight catering market can be divided based on flight type, aircraft seating class, flight duration, food type, catering type, and region.

Market Breakup by Flight Type

• Full-Service Carriers
• Low-Cost Carriers
• Others

Market Breakup by Aircraft Saeting Class

• Economy Class
• Business Class
• First Class

Market Breakup by Flight Duration

• Long Haul
• Short Haul

Market Breakup by Food Type

• Meals
• Bakery and Confectionery
• Beverages
• Others

Market Breakup by Catering Type

• Retail on Board
• Classic Catering

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Competitive Landscape

The EMR report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the global inflight catering market. Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

• The Emirates Group
• Cathay Pacific Airways Limited
• Flying Food Group
• Amber Green Corporation (Abby's Catering)
• DO & CO Aktiengesellschaft
• Gate Gourmet Switzerland GmbH
• LSG Group
• SATS Ltd.
• Saudi Airlines Catering
• Newrest Group Services SAS
• ANA Catering Service Co., Ltd.
• Others

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*We at Expert Market Research always strive to provide you with the latest information. The numbers in the article are only indicative and may be different from the actual report.