NE FEATURES BUREAU
CHENNAI, NOV 20
Air India, India’s leading global carrier, has unveiled a spectacular new global menu that transforms inflight dining into a culinary journey across continents. Inspired by India’s rich gastronomic heritage — from the royal kitchens of Awadh to coastal southern flavours — the refreshed menu also brings in bold Pan-Asian, European bistro, Korean, and geo-specific favourites, creating a vibrant, world-class dining experience across the fleet.
The new menu has already rolled out on major international ex-India routes including Delhi–London Heathrow, New York, Melbourne, Sydney, Toronto and Dubai; Mumbai/Bengaluru–San Francisco; and Mumbai–New York, and will progressively extend to all global and domestic sectors.
- From slow-cooked kebabs to sizzling bibimbap, aromatic biryani to teriyaki salmon — a world tour on a plate
- First, Business, Premium Economy & Economy get elevated, region-inspired and globally curated dining
- 18+ special meals, eco-friendly sourcing, chef-crafted recipes and upgraded service redefine onboard gastronomy
- “Every meal must go beyond taste — it must serve care, craft and excellence,” says Air India
Designed to delight every kind of traveller, the menu blends comforting, region-inspired meals with global bestsellers — from authentic South Indian tiffin to Japanese Teppanyaki bowls, Mediterranean tapas, Korean bibimbap, and chef-crafted European classics.
First Class guests will enjoy gourmet multi-course meals, artisanal breads, signature desserts, and bespoke wine and champagne pairings. Business Class features elevated multi-course dining with curated beverages, while Premium Economy and Economy have been upgraded with wholesome, flavour-forward meal trays infused with regional familiarity and refined presentation.
MENU HIGHLIGHTS
Signature Indian Specialities
• Awadhi Paneer Anjeer Pasanda, Murgh Massalam, South Indian platter (First/Business)
• Rajasthani besan chilla, malabari chicken curry, malai palak kofta (Premium Economy)
Global & Pan-Asian Creations
• Japanese Teppanyaki Bowl, citrus tiger prawns, oriental napa cabbage & tofu rollmops (First Class)
• Seoul flamed prawns, manicotti forestiere, Mediterranean tapas (Business Class)
Gen-Z Favourites
• Chicken bibimbap and matcha delice (Business Class)
Comfort Classics
• Homestyle masala dal khichdi, stuffed parantha (Business Class)
Special Diets & Plant-Based Options
• Extensive vegan, gluten-free, low-allergen and health-conscious menus
The new menu has been curated by Chef Sandeep Kalra, who recently joined Air India as part of its ongoing transformation journey — which includes new aircraft, upgraded cabins, and an enhanced inflight experience. Drawing from India’s street-food culture, southern tiffin traditions, and global favourites like Korean bibimbap, Chef Sandeep has designed dishes that resonate with today’s travellers. Air India cabin crew have undergone specialised training to elevate onboard service with precision and warmth.
Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India, said: “At the very core, the new food and beverage enhancements draw inspiration from Air India’s commitment to continuous innovation and transforming the customer experience. We are reimagining the inflight dining experience that resonates with the tastes and preferences of global travellers. Our thoughtfully curated menu caters to guests from different cultural affinities who prefer delectable gourmet meals. We endeavour to master the art of menu design and presentation to ensure every inflight meal goes beyond taste into serving care and culinary excellence.”
Air India will now offer more than 18 special meal types — making it one of the few airlines worldwide with such a comprehensive dietary portfolio. Travellers can pre-select meals via the Air India app, complete with chef’s notes, allergen details and customisation options.
Sustainability is also integrated throughout the food cycle. Air India is shifting towards responsible sourcing, using seasonal local produce to support farmers and reduce food miles. Eco-friendly measures include compostable cutlery, paper meal boxes, reduced single-use plastics, and segregation of onboard waste for recycling and composting — reinforcing the airline’s commitment to lowering its environmental footprint.
With its globally inspired, thoughtfully curated, and eco-conscious new dining experience, Air India is setting a fresh benchmark in inflight gastronomy — ensuring every journey is as flavourful as it is memorable.
