Australia's best international airlines for food, according to new research
Airplane food isn't exactly known for its gourmet quality, but whether you're planning a short or long-haul flight, you might be curious to know which airlines offer the best (and worst) in-flight meals before booking your next trip.
Money.com.au has ranked Australia's top international airlines based on their average food and beverage ratings from review sites like Tripadvisor, ProductReview, and Skytrax.
All food scores were converted to a standardised 10-point scale.
Here are the rankings.
9. Scoot
With a score of 3.9/10, Singapore's low-cost carrier Scoot kicks off the list. When you fly budget the experts say that food quality will often match.
"If you're flying economy with a low-cost carrier, you'll generally have to pay for on-board meals. If these rankings are anything to go by, you might be better off saving the extra cost and packing your own snacks," Money.com.au's Finance Expert, Sean Callery, says.
9. Jetstar
Jetstar tied at ninth with a score of 3.9/10. Jetstar flies internationally to countries across Asia and the South Pacific, as well as New Zealand and Hawaii. On most flights food will come at an extra cost.
8. Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia Airlines comes in 8th place with a food score of 5.1/10. The airline offers pre-ordered meals, and has a Chef-on-Call service in premium cabins.
6. Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia received a score of 5.4/10. In June, the airline launched a brand new in-flight menu, and revealed Australia's favourite snack onboard.
6. Qantas
The highest ranked Aussie airline was Qantas with a score of 5.5/10.
"The fact that no domestic carriers made it into the top half of the table is not great news for people who regularly fly within Australia. The consolation is that many of the most popular internal flight routes are short enough that you probably don't need a meal on board," says Sean.
5. Cathay Pacific
In fifth place with a score of 5.8/10 was Cathay Pacific. Economy Class passengers can enjoy meals featuring classic Hong Kong dishes, healthy plant-forward options, and international cuisine.
4. Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand ranks 4th with a solid food score of 6.1/10, and stands out as a relatively strong contender for in-flight food quality based on the ratings, especially when compared to other airlines outside the premium category.
"Air New Zealand ranking ahead of Qantas in meal quality is bound to ruffle a few feathers. It could stir up some friendly rivalry, but New Zealand's national carrier is clearly winning when it comes to serving up better in-flight meals," says Sean.
3. Emirates
In third place was Emirates with a score of 6.3/10. One reviewer online wrote: "The food on my flight to Dubai was superior, but overall, the food served on Emirates is a notch above competitors as it has more flavour."
2. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines was not far off the top spot with a score of 6.9/10. The airline has introduced new packaging to help with sustainability, and also offers a popular 'Book the Cook' service in premium cabins.flights.
