When flying internationally on full-service carriers (such as Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, or British Airways), the standard in-flight meal service offers a choice between a generic non-vegetarian and a vegetarian dish. However, if you are a vegetarian or follow strict Jain guidelines, relying on the standard cart can result in disappointment. The ultimate in-flight hack is pre-booking Special Meals online. Here is how this hack works and why it is beneficial.
Table of Contents
1. The International Flight Meal Mismatch
2. What are Airline Special Meals?
3. The Codes Decoded: AVML, HNML, and JNML
4. Hack 1: Get Served First (Priority Cabin Service)
5. How to Book Special Meals (Step-by-Step)
6. Double-Checking Your Meal Status at Check-In
7. Inquire About Your Seamless Travel Planning
The International Flight Meal Mismatch
Most international airlines carry a limited number of standard vegetarian meals. If you sit in the middle or back rows, the meal cart may run out of vegetarian options by the time it reaches your seat, leaving you with only salads or bread rolls for a long 8+ hour flight.
What are Airline Special Meals?
Special meals are pre-prepared, dietary-specific meals cooked in separate, hygienic airport kitchen facilities. Airlines do not charge extra fees for booking special meals; they simply require you to select them in advance.
💡 The TPH Advantage
In-flight comfort is crucial for family holidays. We pre-book vegetarian, Jain, or child-friendly meals for all our clients during the flight ticketing phase, ensuring a pleasant flight experience.
The Codes Decoded: AVML, HNML, and JNML
When booking, choose the exact three-letter code that fits your preferences:
- AVML (Asian Vegetarian Meal): A spiced Indian-style vegetarian meal (often paneer, lentils, rice, and paratha) prepared with traditional masalas.
- HNML (Hindu Non-Vegetarian Meal): Does not contain beef or pork; prepared with Indian-style chicken or fish spices.
- JNML (Jain Vegetarian Meal): Strictly vegetarian meal prepared without any root vegetables (onion, garlic, potatoes).
Hack 1: Get Served First (Priority Cabin Service)
The best part of pre-booking a special meal is priority service:
- Flight attendants distribute special meals individually before rolling out the main service carts.
- You will receive your hot meal and finish eating before other passengers are served, letting you sleep or use the restrooms without waiting in lines.
How to Book Special Meals (Step-by-Step)
1. Log in to the airline website under “Manage Booking” using your PNR.
2. Navigate to the “Passenger Preferences” or “Select Meals” section.
3. Select the desired meal code (e.g., AVML or JNML) for each leg of your flight.
4. Save changes at least 24 to 48 hours before your scheduled departure.
Double-Checking Your Meal Status at Check-In
- When dropping off your bags at the airport desk, ask the check-in agent to confirm: *”Is my Asian Vegetarian Meal (AVML) registered in the system?”*
- The code will be printed on your physical boarding pass (e.g., “AVML” printed next to your seat number), confirming your order.
Inquire About Your Seamless Travel Planning
Ready to travel in complete comfort with customized in-flight meals and smooth transits? Let us coordinate your private flights, custom tours, and premium holiday bookings.
