In-Flight Catering Services Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028

The global in-flight catering services market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.45% from 2022 to 2028.

MARKET TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES

Shift Towards Pre-packaged Food

Pre-packed food has become an increasingly popular choice in the in-flight catering services market due to several reasons such as convenience, variety, cost saving, help in waste reduction, ease of service, quality, and many more, which offers many benefits to airlines and passengers, making it a popular choice for in-flight catering services. Moreover, pre-packaged food has several advantages over freshly prepared food for in-flight meals. Pre-packaged food is easy to handle, requires less preparation time, and can be easily stored and transported in bulk. It also comes up with great consistency in taste and quality because the food is prepared in a controlled environment, and each package contains the same quantity of ingredients.

Rising International Travel and Tourism

The rising international travel and tourism industry has driven the in-flight catering services market. As the number of people traveling by air has increased, so has the demand for high-quality and diverse food and beverage options during flights. Such factors have led to a growing industry for in-flight catering services, which provide passengers with meals, snacks, and drinks during flights. The travel and tourism market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by several factors. These include the increasing global population and rising disposable incomes, which have led to more people traveling for leisure and business. Additionally, the growth of the sharing economy and the rise of online booking platforms have also contributed to expanding the travel and tourism industry.

INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS

Stringent Norms Lead to Less Affordability to Acquire In-Flight Catering Services

Stringent norms and regulations can lead to higher costs and less affordability in acquiring in-flight catering services, challenging the industry. These regulations can include food safety and hygiene standards, airport security regulations, and other requirements that catering companies must comply with to provide their services. For example, catering companies may require specialized equipment and processes to ensure food is prepared and stored safely and hygienically. This can lead to higher costs for catering companies, which may need to invest in specialized equipment and staff training to meet these requirements. Additionally, catering companies may require frequent inspections and audits to comply with all applicable regulations. These regulations can increase the cost of providing in-flight catering services, ultimately making it more difficult for airlines to afford these services and hampering the in-flight catering services market growth. As a result, catering companies may need to find ways to balance compliance with regulations while keeping costs affordable for their clients.

SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS

INSIGHTS BY AIRCRAFT CLASS

The in-flight catering services market is a crucial aspect of the aviation industry, playing a vital role in ensuring passenger satisfaction and comfort during their travels. There are generally three categories of aircraft: first class, business class, and economy class. In 2022, the economy class held the largest market share by aircraft class. Economy class is the most affordable class of travel and is the most used by passengers. In-flight catering services for economy class passengers typically include snacks and beverages such as soft drinks, juices, and water. Depending on the airline's policy and the flight duration, some airlines may offer complimentary meals, while others may require passengers to purchase them.

Segmentation By Aircraft Class

• Economy Class
• Business Class
• First Class & Private Jets

INSIGHTS BY DISTANCE

The long-haul flight distance segment dominated the global in-flight catering services market 2022. Long-haul flights cover distances of over 6 hours and are generally the most demanding in terms of in-flight catering services. In-flight catering services for long-haul flights may include multiple meal services, snacks, and a wide range of beverages. In premium classes such as business and first class, passengers can expect gourmet meals and an extensive selection of premium beverages. Additionally, many airlines provide special meals for passengers with dietary restrictions or preferences on long-haul flights. The in-flight catering services market for the long-haul is highly competitive, with many companies providing catering services to airlines worldwide. These companies often specialize in catering for specific regions or types of cuisine and work closely with airlines to develop menus and catering options that meet the specific needs of their passengers.

Segmentation By Distance

• Short & Mid Haul Flights
• Long Haul Flights

INSIGHTS BY SERVICES

The global in-flight catering services market by services segments such as meals, beverages, bakery & confectionery, and other services. The meals segment holds the most significant market share. They are typically provided in all classes of service and may include full meals, snacks, or light refreshments, depending on the flight length and the class of travel. In-flight meals are often prepared in advance and packaged in individual containers to ensure quality and convenience for passengers. In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward offering healthier and more diverse meal options in the in-flight catering services market. This includes offering more plant-based meal options and meals that cater to specific diets, such as low-carb or paleo diets.

Segmentation By Service

• Meals
• Beverages
• Bakery & Confectionary
• Others

GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

The global in-flight catering services market is driven by the growth of the aviation industry and increasing demand for air travel. Europe is leading the global in-flight catering services market, with major airlines and catering companies operating in the region. The size and growth of the European airline industry play a crucial role in determining the demand for in-flight catering services. The number of airlines operating in Europe, their routes, and the frequency of flights are some key factors determining the demand for in-flight catering services. The level of connectivity between different European cities and countries also plays a significant role in determining the demand for in-flight catering services. The more connected cities and countries are, the higher suitability for the passengers to travel via airplane and rising air traffic, ultimately driving the demand for in-flight catering services.

Segmentation by Geography

• Europe
• The U.K.
• Spain
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• North America
• The U.S.
• Canada
• APAC
• China
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• India
• Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

There is fierce competition in the global in-flight catering service market, with many players trying to gain industry share through price, quality, innovation, and service offerings. Major global in-flight catering services market players include Gate Gourmet, LSG Sky Chefs, Do & Co, Dnata, SATS, Emirates Flight Catering, and Newrest. Smaller niche companies and regional players also play a significant role in the industry. The market is expected to grow due to increasing demand for sustainable and healthy food options, including plant-based meals, and regional players are expected to cater to specific airline needs. The range and quality of services vendors offer are also important factors in this highly competitive industry.

Key Company Profiles

• Cathay Pacific Airways
• Do & Co Aktiengesellschaft
• The Emirates Group
• Flying Food Group
• Gategroup
• LSG Group
• SATS
• Newrest Group International
• Brahim’s Holding

Other Prominent Vendors

• Abby’s Catering
• Aero Angles Catering
• Aerowisatafood
• Air Culinaire Worldwide
• Air Fayre
• Casino Air Caterers and Flight Services (CAFS)
• Cookin Food Sweden
• Delisky
• Evergreen Sky Catering
• AAS Catering
• GIC International
• KLM Catering Services
• Kitchen Cuisine Flight Catering
• Qatar Aircraft Catering Company
• Royal Blue Catering
• Servair
• Qatar Airways
• Sancak Inflight Services
• Catering Air Algérie
• Egyptair In-flight Services
• Manny Catering
• SriLankan Catering
• Scarlett House Food

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED:

• How big is the in-flight catering services market?
• What is the growth rate of the global in-flight catering services market?
• What are the growing trends in the in-flight catering services industry?
• Which region holds the most significant global in-flight catering services market share?
• Who are the key players in the global in-flight catering services market?