Airlines have introduced many changes to protect the health and safety of passengers and crews. These new rules and procedures have introduced a lot of information for travellers to sift through, and although pre-packaged meals remain, there are a few changes to what you can eat and drink on a plane.

We’ve gathered the most relevant updates to answer your questions about what to expect in the airport and on the plane when it comes to food and drinks on flights. The industry is still experimenting with different rules to keep passengers, airport workers, and airline crews safe. For the most up-to-date rules, always refer to airport and airline websites.

Are airlines still serving food and drink on planes?

Airlines still serve food or drinks on planes, though some have previously reduced or suspended in-flight service to reduce contact between passengers and the flight crew and minimize the risk of transmitting viruses. In these cases, flight attendants would offer sealed, individual snacks and a limited selection of canned or bottled beverages to passengers in coach and economy classes, and first-class passengers received prepackaged trays instead of multi-course meals.

Most airlines have now returned to normal in-flight food and drink offerings. In-flight options still vary, and you can expect different in-flight services, depending on your flight time and duration, the airline you fly, and which cabin class you’re seated in.

How have major airlines changed what you can eat and drink on a plane?

United Airlines 

United Airlines offers snack, bistro, and beverage options that vary by flight location and distance. Passengers also get a sanitary wipe for their seat when they arrive on board. All passengers have access to these amenities:

• Flights over 300 miles: Free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

• Flights over 500 miles: Premium snacks available for purchase for flights traveling within Canada, the US, and Latin America. Snack options vary, ranging from Pringles to gummy bears.

• Flights over 1,190 miles: International flights include a complimentary meal and free house wines and beer, coffee, soft drinks, juice, and tea. Passengers can purchase Bistro on Board items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as spirits and liqueurs.

Polaris and Premium Plus passengers receive exclusive meals and additional options for other meals, midnight snacks, and even made-to-order sundaes. 

Lufthansa

Lufthansa offers a refreshed food and beverage experience with simple choices and easy upgrades. Passengers can pre-order meals, buy fresh snacks and beverages onboard, or enjoy the included service on long-haul flights. Here’s what to expect in each cabin:

• Flights longer than 35 minutes: Complimentary bottle of water and Lufthansa chocolate.

• Flights longer than 45 minutes: Fresh meals, snacks, and drinks available to purchase from the Onboard Delights menu — certain items are only available with pre-order.

• Flights longer than 70 minutes: The entire Onboard Delights menu is available for purchase.

• Long-haul flights: Complimentary hot meals, snacks, and beverages.

• Premium and business class: Feature elevated multi-course meals and an expanded selection of beverages.

• Meal pre-ordering: 18 hours before departure for flights leaving Germany, 24 hours for flights to Germany, and 24 hours for long-haul flights.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways offers a welcoming dining experience in every cabin, with complimentary meals and a wide selection of drinks on all flights. Economy passengers receive freshly prepared meals, snacks, and full beverage options, while Business and First Class travellers enjoy elevated options from a broader menu. 

Qatar Airways doesn't serve prepackaged frozen meals — instead, meals are prepared ahead of your flights using local, in-season ingredients. Service items are washed thoroughly, high-touch surfaces are wiped down during the journey, and hand sanitizer is easy to access before eating.

• All passengers receive complimentary meals and beverages on every route.

• Digital menus are available up to 14 days before departure.

• Medium- and long-haul routes include hot meals, with long-haul flights often offering two hot meals plus a mid-flight snack.

• Special meals (vegan, vegetarian, medical, and religious) are available across all cabins.

• First Class and Business passengers can order meals whenever they like from the Dine Anytime à la carte menu.

Can you bring food on a plane?

Airlines generally allow passengers to bring food on board, so long as it complies with airport security guidelines and has passed the security checkpoint. Your food will need to fit inside your carry-on bag.

Can I take food through airport security?

Travellers are allowed to bring food through airport security. However, you should remove any food and snacks from your carry-on bag, along with your bagged liquids, so they can be screened separately.

Here are some solid food items that you're allowed to bring and eat on the plane:

• Bread

• Cake 

• Candy

• Cereal

• Cheese

• Chocolate

• Cooked meat, seafood, and vegetables without liquid

• Cookies

• Crackers

• Dried fruit

• Nuts

• Pies 

• Pizza

• Sandwiches

• Snacks

Can you bring drinks on a plane?

Carry-on liquids have greater restrictions than solid foods. Liquids of less than 100ml/3.4oz are allowed through the airport security checkpoint and must be placed in a single resealable quart-sized bag. Certain spreads, toppings, and other foods are also treated as liquids and must adhere to these restrictions or be packed in your checked luggage. These include:

• Cream cheese

• Liquid chocolate

• Dips and spreads

• Gravy

• Honey and maple syrup

• Hummus

• Ice cream

• Jam and jelly

• Oils and vinegars

• Peanut butter

• Salsas and sauces

• Yogurt

Fresh fruits and vegetables from certain locations can't be transported due to the risk of spreading pests and disease. If they're mashed, liquid, or otherwise soft, they may be treated as a liquid. Baby foods, such as purees or formulas, count as liquids too, but they're exempt from these rules since they're necessary for infants and toddlers. Keep in mind that security officers make the final call as to whether your food, drinks, or other items are allowed through the security checkpoint.

Restricted liquids also include alcohol, though most security checkpoints require it to be in its original retail packaging and unopened. You can drink on a plane, but passengers aren't allowed to open their carry-on alcohol once on the plane — alcohol can only be served by flight attendants. Carriers also allow passengers to bring non-alcoholic beverages on board if they were purchased at the airport terminal.

Are airport shops and restaurants open?

Airport shops and restaurants maintain normal business hours, so you can expect plenty of options for pre-flight snacks, drinks, and shopping, with some limitations for late nights or early mornings. Some businesses have implemented online ordering options to minimize contact and streamline services. Check your airport’s website to see your dining and retail options and plan accordingly.

Should I take my face mask off to eat while in flight?

Face masks that fully cover your nose and mouth are optional during flights, so you can eat and drink comfortably. While wearing a face mask is up to you, keep in mind that many airlines recommend wearing a high-quality mask to reduce overall risk, and some destinations may require you to wear a mask when you arrive. With HEPA filters, though, the air inside a plane is often cleaner than in many public locations. 

The evolving state of travel and what you can eat and drink on a plane

Although much has changed in recent years, airlines have eased most restrictions on what you can eat and drink on a plane and now offer expanded in-flight dining and drink options. Remember to travel responsibly by following airport and airline rules and guidelines, such as avoiding travel when ill, wearing a mask, washing or sanitizing your hands, and not touching your face. If you feel unwell, consider modifying your plans to avoid spreading illnesses.

With the world reopened and welcoming to travellers, start planning for your next trip. Get more travel tips on how to keep yourself and others safe when flying.

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