travel requirements air nz

Travel requirements

We recommend you check information about visa and entry requirements before you book and at least a week before you fly. 

COVID-19 information hub

Keeping you safe while travelling

The wellbeing of our customers and our people is important to us, and we're doing what we can to ensure every journey together is a safe and enjoyable one. Here's what we are doing to help you travel safely.

International check-in

When to check in.

Your international check-in time depends on your particular flight. Some flights close check-in 90 minutes before departure. Others can be 120 minutes beforehand.

You can find the exact time in the  Air NZ app , your check-in email or on your e-ticket.

Remember, this is when check-in closes . Give yourself enough time to arrive well before then especially if you are travelling with children or anyone who needs special assistance. There could be queues, or you might be delayed on your way to the airport. You also need to give yourself enough time to go through security screening and customs.

Note: If the first flight in your itinerary is operated by a partner airline. You'll need to check in at the partner airline's check-in desk or website.

What you need to check in

It's very important you have all your documentation. It's illegal to board your flight without it.

You'll need:

• Your ticket , either printed or electronic
• Your passport , valid for at least six months. Check if the countries you're visiting have other passport requirements
• Your entry visas , if required by the countries you're visiting
• Your health and/or border declaration , if required by the countries you're visiting or transiting through 

Entry requirements differ between countries. Before you check in, we recommend that you ensure that you meet all travel requirements for each country you're visiting or transiting through.

Three ways to check in

Check in at the airport.

If you have all the travel documentation required by your destination and transit points, you can skip the queues and use the self-service kiosks.

You will be asked to scan your machine-readable passport (these have two lines of letters, numbers and symbols below your personal information).

Then confirm your seats, and print your boarding passes and bag tags. Attach the labels to your bags and take them to Bag Drop. You're ready to go through security.

You can use Air New Zealand self-serve kiosks if you're flying from:

• Auckland, Blenheim, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Invercargill, Napier, Nelson, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Rotorua, Tauranga, Queenstown and Wellington
• Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney 
• Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver
• Hong Kong, Nadi, Narita and Singapore

Flying with a partner airline? Check in at the partner airline's departure desks.

Sometimes we can't always offer online or mobile check-in

You'll need to check in at the airport if:

• There are border restrictions that require us to manually check your documentation
• Home-printed or mobile boarding passes are not accepted at your departure airport (such as Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport).
• You're flying out of Niue. You'll need to check-in at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs and bag drop closes 120 minutes
• If you need special assistance
• If you're a child travelling alone

Remember, you can only check in if you hold the correct entry and transit requirements ,  such as a visa, ESTA, NZTD or proof of onward travel.

Checking in your bags

If you've checked in online, it's easy to check in your bags when you arrive at the airport. Use one of our self-service kiosks to print your bag tags. Tag your bags and take them to Bag Drop or the Oversize and fragile items desk.

The Bag Drop open times will vary depending on your departure airport and scheduled flight departure time. As a general rule, at international airports, our check-in and Bag Drop desks and kiosks are usually open 3 hours before departure. 

You can find what time Bag Drop closes on your e-ticket and on the flight details screen on the Air NZ app if you've added your booking there. 

If you have an Air New Zealand flight that connects with another Air New Zealand flight, or an airline we have an agreement with, and it's on the same booking, your baggage will be tagged to go through to your final destination. Find out more about checking in your bags for connecting flights .  

You can track the status of your checked bags on all Air New Zealand and partner Star Alliance flights within the Air NZ app .  

Still waiting for your upgrade?

If you've requested an upgrade and haven't heard from us yet, please check in as normal. It won't cancel your upgrade.

If your upgrade comes through at the last minute, we'll let you know at the gate and give you a new boarding pass.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Travelling to New Zealand

Travelling to New Zealand is easy with available flights from many international destinations.

See travel requirements to NZ >

Depending on where you are coming from around the world, there are available flights to New Zealand that fly into Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown or Dunedin. Auckland Airport (AKL) is a major airline hub and is the most common airport for international flights. Visitors can continue to other destinations through domestic flights from Auckland.

Another popular way to get to and explore the country is by Cruise . Most cruises to New Zealand depart from Australia and the Pacific Islands and some are round-the-world journeys.

You can also contact a travel agent if you need help in planning your New Zealand holiday.

Travel requirements to New Zealand

Find out more about  what you need to enter New Zealand (opens in new window)  from your country of origin, including regulations, visa requirements (opens in new window) and health and safety guidelines. 

Everyone entering New Zealand needs to submit a New Zealand Traveller Declaration including babies and children. It’s free and you can complete it on the NZTD website or by downloading the NZTD app ahead of your travel.

Fill out a New Zealand Traveller Declaration

Essential travel information

Covid-19 travel safety information, visas and entry requirements, flights to new zealand, plane find & book flights.

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International travel requirements: What NZ travellers need to know

Sarah Pollok

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Ready to take off on some international travel again? Make sure you are aware of any remaining pandemic requirements. Photo / Air New Zealand

After years of domestic travel (or no travel at all), you are finally ready to take that long-awaited trip.

Fortunately, travel to many destinations will feel familiar to pre-pandemic days. There will be expensive airport food, long security queues and cramped plane seats. There will not be pre-departure tests, social distancing or mask mandates.

However, some Covid-19 requirements remain for those heading abroad and returning to New Zealand.

The specific requirements will vary by destination but here are some basic documents you will likely need.

1. Proof of vaccination

Vaccination has been a major priority around the world and in many countries.

As of September 13, New Zealand officially dropped its requirements for arrivals to show proof of vaccination, but some airlines and countries will still need to see this.

This requires travellers to have an "International Travel Vaccination Certificate". This is different to the "My Vaccine Pass" used within New Zealand.

If you've rocked up to the airport and forgotten this requirement, don't worry as it often takes a few minutes to request one online.

After creating a free My Covid Record account, you can log in and "request pass or certificate". It should be emailed to you within a few minutes.

If you have downloaded this before, check the expiry date, as if it is "expired" you will need to re-request a new certificate.

Most destinations consider two doses of Pfizer to be sufficient. However, some countries require visitors to have received a "booster", so check ahead of time.

Even if your destination does not require proof of vaccination for entry, it's worth having on hand, as individual establishments or events can require it.

The number of countries, airports or airlines with mask mandates is dwindling but some popular destinations and transit countries still have this requirement. Typically, if the flight's destination requires masks on public transport, passengers must mask up, even if the city they're departing from does not.

3. New Zealand Traveller's Declaration

Some travellers may complain about filling out a New Zealand Traveller's Declaration and yes, compared to 2019, it is an extra piece of paperwork to do. Yet, compared to the rigmarole of getting pre-departure tests or post-arrival quarantine, this two-minute form is a piece of cake.

You can fill out the online form up to 28 days before flying back into New Zealand, as long as you know your flight details. After submitting the form, a QR code should be emailed to you within minutes. You'll be asked to show this to immigration after landing in New Zealand.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled but you still travel within 24 hours of the original departure time, you don't need to update the declaration.

Forgotten to complete the form? Don't worry, there is an emergency option to complete it upon arrival with an airport staff member. This will just take extra time.

4. A valid passport

Everyone knows you need a passport to travel internationally. What some may have forgotten is that the expiry date must be at least six months away from when you return from travel.

If your passport does not have six months of validity left, many countries will not accept it. Need to renew yours? Get onto it sooner rather than later, as people have experienced long wait times because of a backlog of requests.

5. Travel insurance (with Covid-19 cover)

It's the least fun part of travel planning but one that can save tens of thousands of dollars if plans go awry. Which, unfortunately, is highly likely as the travel industry finds its feet again.

Travel insurance should be the first thing you purchase, before flights, to ensure any incidents or issues can be covered. Some destinations and Covid-related situations may be exempt, so speak to a representative to understand exactly what will be covered.

• Because of the constantly changing nature of the pandemic, all information can be subject to change. Check government updates at covid19.govt.nz

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Travel requirements

We recommend you check information about visa and entry requirements before you book and at least a week before you fly. 

Before you travel

Avoid surprises — before you go, find and check your passport, pay your fines and check if there are any special travel requirements for the countries you’re visiting.

Documents you’ll need to leave NZ

You’ll need a passport. If your passport is damaged or close to expiring, you might not be allowed to enter some countries.

Check your passport is valid

The name in your passport must match your tickets and your officially registered name.

Before you travel, check if the country you’re visiting has special rules.

Check visa and entry requirements for your destination

Travel advisories

Travel advisories from the NZ government cover security and safety concerns in 137 places around the world.

The SafeTravel website has tips to help you stay safe overseas, what to do if things go wrong, and how the New Zealand government can or cannot help.

Register with SafeTravel

SafeTravel is the official registration facility for New Zealanders travelling or living overseas.

If you’re registered, SafeTravel can:

• contact you if there is a major incident overseas
• send you updates about emergencies, natural disasters or terrorist attacks.

Get travel insurance

You should get comprehensive travel insurance before heading away. You need to make sure it covers everywhere you’re going, and everything you plan to do.

If you do not have travel insurance, you’ll have to pay any overseas medical costs yourself, including the cost of returning to New Zealand.

Unpaid fines

If you have unpaid fines and try to leave or come into New Zealand, the police can stop you at the airport. You will be allowed to pay by credit card over the phone with a registrar.

If you’re travelling in the next 48 hours and you have fines or reparation you have not paid, call 0800 729 677 to pay with your credit card.

If you get a benefit

You must let Work and Income know your travel plans and your reasons for travel before you leave New Zealand. Partners travelling must also let them know. If you do not, your benefit might stop the day after you leave.

Going overseas to live

If you get NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension

You need to tell Seniors Services that you’re going overseas before you leave NZ.

• If you travel overseas
• Living overseas if you get NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension

If you have a student loan

If you do not meet your repayment obligations, you could be arrested when you return to NZ. Make sure you keep up your student loan payments while you’re overseas or you could be charged interest and penalties.

Going overseas when you have a student loan

If you pay tax

You might need to file a tax return (IR3) that covers the period up to the date you leave NZ. You may also need to file a tax return at a later time showing details of any income you’ve earned overseas or from an NZ source.

Find out if you should file a tax return

If you have tax debt, contact Inland Revenue to discuss the options for paying your debt. The Australian Tax Office can help recover tax debt owed by New Zealanders who move to Australia.

What to do if you have a tax debt

If you pay child support

You must contact IR.

Child support payments

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Last updated 15 October 2021

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Date printed 12 June 2024

Completing your declaration Te whakaoti i tō whakapuakanga

You can complete your declaration online or on the NZTD app.

How to start a declaration

You can start and complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration:

• on the NZTD online form New Zealand Traveller Declaration
• on the NZTD app, which you can download at the App Store or Google Play Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

Once you have started your declaration, you will be emailed a reference number that you can use to review, complete or make changes to your declaration. Take note of this reference number, just in case you need it on arrival into New Zealand.

Please note: The NZTD app is only available for air travellers and cruise travellers, it is not yet available for other maritime travellers. Other maritime travellers can use the online form .

Information you need to provide

• Passport details
• Contact details in New Zealand (if staying in multiple locations, use the first address you will be at in New Zealand)
• Travel history from the last 30 days
• Flight or voyage details
• Information about what you are bringing into New Zealand, including checked-in luggage and carry-on bags
• Immigration status including your visa or NZeTA, if you need one.

What you need to declare

Some items can carry harmful pests and diseases and need to be declared. This includes things like some foods, used outdoor equipment, animal and plant products. You may also need to declare medicines, tobacco, alcohol and if you are carrying NZ$10,000 or more cash (or equivalent) into New Zealand.

Your traveller declaration is a legal document. False declarations can lead to penalties including confiscation of goods, a minimum instant fine of NZ$400, prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation from New Zealand.

If you’re unsure about what you can and can’t bring into New Zealand, check out the Biosecurity online tool.  

Check if you can bring or send an item to NZ – Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries

How to declare items when arriving in New Zealand – Manatū Ahu Matua Ministry for Primary Industries

Submitting your declaration

For air travellers, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand.

For sea travellers, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before departing the vessel’s last foreign port prior to arriving in New Zealand.

Once you have submitted your declaration, you will receive another email that includes information on what you need to know to enter New Zealand, based on what you have told us.

You do not need to print anything out.  

Changing your declaration

You can use the reference number that has been emailed to you to review, complete or make changes to your declaration.

If you started your declaration using the online form, you can only view, update or submit your declaration in the online form. If you started your declaration in the NZTD app, you can use the app or the online form to view, update and submit your declaration.

You will need to resubmit your declaration if you make any changes to it. 

You can make changes to your declaration up until you get to passport control or are processed by a border officer.

You can no longer make any changes to your declaration after you have gone through passport control or been processed by a border officer in New Zealand. If you have forgotten to declare something, you will need to talk to a border officer.

If you are carrying a restricted or prohibited item and do not declare it, you may be fined or prosecuted.

Support completing your declaration

If you are having trouble with your declaration, you can ask someone you trust to help you or to fill it out on your behalf. There is a paper declaration form available on arrival, if needed. You do not need to fill in a paper declaration form if you have completed a digital declaration.

Remember the declaration is free to complete. Get in touch with our contact centre if you have questions.

Long-haul journey and stopovers

Travelling with a stopover.

If you have a stopover (you leave the airport and take your bags with you), the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before your flight leaves your stopover location for New Zealand.

For example, if you are flying from London to Auckland via Singapore, and are staying the night or leaving Singapore airport and taking your bags with you, you can submit your declaration 24 hours before your flight leaves Singapore for Auckland.

Travelling without a stopover

If you are travelling long-haul (on multiple flights without a stopover), the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start the first leg of your journey to New Zealand.

For example, if you are flying from London to Auckland via Singapore, you can submit your declaration 24 hours before you leave London, as long as you (and your bags) are not leaving the airport in Singapore.

Travelling on multinational passports

Enter the details of the passport you will use to enter New Zealand when completing your New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

For example, if you are using a UK passport to leave Europe but a New Zealand passport to enter New Zealand, enter the details of your New Zealand passport in your declaration. 

Changes to your flight or voyage

If you make a change to your flight booking, you need to update your digital declaration to reflect your new flight details. Make sure you resubmit your declaration.

If your flight is cancelled or changed by the airline, you do not need to do anything if you are flying on the same day. If your flight arrives on another day, you will need to edit your declaration to show this.

If you are travelling by sea and the date of your arrival or details of the vessel you are travelling on are changed, you will need to edit your declaration to reflect this.

Travellers who do not need to complete a declaration

Air travellers who are transiting through New Zealand and stay in the transit area of an airport do not need to complete a declaration.

Travellers unexpectedly arriving in New Zealand due to an emergency may not need to complete a declaration. This includes people who arrive in New Zealand after having been medically evacuated, rescued at sea, or on a temporary basis due to weather conditions.

Group or family declarations

If you’re travelling in a group or as a family, individual declarations need to be completed for each person travelling, including babies and children.

Returning to New Zealand

Everybody entering New Zealand needs to complete a declaration, including New Zealand citizens and residents. For example, if you’re returning to New Zealand from Australia, Fiji or any other country, you will need to complete a declaration.

Support and resources

The traveller factsheet is available in multiple translations.

Travelling by sea

For more information about arriving into Aotearoa New Zealand by sea.

Get in touch if you have any questions or need more information.

New Zealand Traveller Declaration: Completing your declaration (short version)

Here are the things you need to complete your New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

This will take you around 10 minutes.

• flight details
• contact information
• recent travel history
• immigration status including your visa or NZeTA, if you need one
• information about what you are bringing into the country, including what’s in your checked-in luggage and carry-on bags.

Some foods, used outdoor equipment, animal or plant products, can’t be brought into New Zealand. They can carry harmful pests and diseases.

You may need to declare any medicines, tobacco, alcohol, and 10,000 New Zealand dollars cash and over, or equivalent.

If you’re unsure about what you can and can’t bring into New Zealand, check out the online tool.

It’s okay to get someone to help you complete your digital declaration. Or you can fill in a paper declaration form on arrival.

You do not need to fill in a paper form if you have done a digital declaration.

Once you start your digital declaration, you will get an email with a reference number. You can use this to make any changes up until you reach passport control in New Zealand.

You will need to resubmit your declaration if you make any changes to it.

You do not need to print anything out. Your New Zealand Traveller Declaration will automatically be checked when your passport is scanned at the eGate or by a border officer.

Go to TravellerDeclaration.govt.nz for more information or to start filling in your digital declaration.

Support and resources in other languages .

Last updated: 12th March 2024

Travelling internationally

Before making your booking, please check the latest government advice and most up-to-date entry requirements for your destinations, including transit points.

• International travel requirements
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• Advice for New Zealanders living overseas

International travel requirements

Visa and border entry requirements for international travel.

Each destination may have different requirements and it is your responsibility to understand what you need to do for your entire trip,  including connecting flights, transit points and your return journey . Failure to meet these requirements may result in denied boarding at the airport. 

• Check if you need to apply for any entry visas or border declaration forms and what timeframe applications need to be completed in. 
• Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel.
• Protect yourself from unexpected medical costs by purchasing travel insurance with COVID-19 cover.

Entry requirements for Air NZ's direct destinations

We've put together these guides to help you understand the travel requirements for Air New Zealand's direct destinations. If your destination isn't listed below, you can visit the IATA Travel Centre to search visa and passport requirements.

Mainland China

• Most travellers who are not citizens of Mainland China will require a tourist or business visa.
• Passengers are no longer required to complete an Electronic Health Declaration Form.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Mainland China have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Hong Kong .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Hong Kong have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Japan .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Japan have been removed.
• See official requirements for entering, transiting, or departing Singapore.
• All passengers must submit a digital Singapore Arrival Card with a Health Declaration via the SG Arrival Card e-Service .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Singapore have been removed.

South Korea

Passengers travelling on passports from visa-waiver countries may require a K-ETA.

If eligible, please apply for a K-ETA at least 24 hours prior to boarding.

• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to South Korea have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Taiwan .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Taiwan have been removed.
• Ensure you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for travel to and transit through Australia.
• Check if you need an  Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter or transit Australia. Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Australia have been removed.

Bali, Indonesia

Travel eligibility .

 Check you meet entry and immigration requirements for Indonesia .

Before departure:

• For customs clearance, all passengers must complete the Electronic Customs Declaration (ECD) which will generate a unique code which must be presented upon arrival.
• To minimise delays during immigration clearance, we recommend all eligible passengers apply for a Electronic Visitor Visa (E-VOA) prior to arrival.
• All eligible passengers are required to pay a Bali Tourist Levy. You can pay this in advance or on entry to Bali but this may delay your arrival process.

COVID-19 health & entry requirements

• You no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter Indonesia or travel domestically.

Reminder: If you're returning to New Zealand, please check the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries enhanced procedures in response to the current outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Bali.

New Zealand

• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for New Zealand .
• If you are not a New Zealand or Australian citizen, you may need to apply for a visa or a  New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) at least 72 hours before travelling  to or transiting New Zealand.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to New Zealand have been removed.
• All passengers entering New Zealand need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration . It's free and can be completed before you travel. Passengers transiting internationally do not need to complete a declaration.
• If you are a New Zealand visa or NZeTA holder, you still need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

North America

• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Canada .
• Find out if you need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for entry or transit.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Canada have been removed.
• Travellers transiting or entering the USA on the non-immigrant Visa Waiver Program must obtain an ESTA at least 72 hours before travel . 
• If you already hold a valid United States visa, then you do not need an ESTA.
• An ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• For check-in, all travellers need to provide their intended accommodation address in the USA, a primary and secondary phone number, and personal email address.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to the USA have been removed.

Pacific Islands

Cook islands.

• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for the Cook Islands . 
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to the Cook Islands have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Fiji . 
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Fiji have been removed.

New Caledonia

• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for New Caledonia .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to New Caledonia have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Niue .
• Flights to Niue are only available through New Zealand. Travellers wanting to visit Niue from outside of New Zealand must meet the border entry requirements for both New Zealand and Niue.
• It is strongly advised that all visitors to Niue are covered by travel insurance.
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Niue have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Samoa .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Samoa have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Tahiti .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Tahiti have been removed.
• Check you have the appropriate travel and identification documents for Tonga .
• All COVID-19 health requirements for travel to Tonga have been removed. 

International travel requirements FAQs

Can my children travel as unaccompanied minors.

Yes, children may travel as unaccompanied minors to all Air New Zealand's direct destinations 

It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to manage any entry requirements for the child's destination and transit.

For further information, please see Children travelling alone .

What if I want to postpone my travel to a later date?

You can change your booking before the day of your flight.

All our NZ domestic and international fares come with the flexibility to make changes to your travel plans prior to departure. Refer to the fare rules of your ticket to check eligibility and note that change fees and fare difference may apply.

Air New Zealand does not require passengers to provide proof of vaccination or a pre-departure test. We do ask that if you're feeling unwell and test positive for COVID-19, please consider changing your travel plans.

How do I supply proof of a negative pre-departure test?

Most international destinations have removed the need for a pre-departure test. 

For the destinations that do require a negative pre-departure test:

• if you're departing from New Zealand, you can call Healthline on  0800 358 5453  or your doctor to find out where you can get tested.
• If you are departing from other international locations, please check your local COVID-19 government website for information on where to get a pre-departure test.

Airplane Food Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Delicious

I t's no secret that airplane food has a bad reputation, but is it really as terrible as it's made out to be? Travel journalist Flora Goodwin dives into the world of airplane food reviews, revealing the best in-flight meals and debunking the myths.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Qatar Airways, Air New Zealand, and Singapore Airlines offer the best airline food, according to AirlineRatings.com.
• Emirates served over 110 million meals in 2019, with 70 million special meals catering to dietary requirements.
• Airline food quality has improved significantly, with fresher ingredients and celebrity chef collaborations.
• Average cost of a meal on a domestic US flight is around $10.
• Flora Goodwin shares personal insights and secret tips on navigating airplane food options.

Also check out: Can I bring food on a plane?

The Rise of Gourmet Airplane Food

According to a survey by AirlineRatings.com, the best airline food in 2020 was served by Qatar Airways, followed by Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines. In fact, many airlines have stepped up their game in recent years, investing in fresher ingredients and collaborating with celebrity chefs. As aviation expert Brian Sumers says, "The quality of airline food has improved dramatically over the past decade." So, let's explore the airlines offering top-notch in-flight meals.

Airlines with the Best Food, According to Reviews

• Qatar Airways : Known for its award-winning cuisine, Qatar Airways offers a variety of dishes catering to all tastes, from traditional Arabic mezze to Western favorites.
• Air New Zealand : This airline prides itself on using locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients and offers a wide range of meal options for passengers.
• Singapore Airlines : With partnerships with renowned chefs, Singapore Airlines serves high-quality, multicultural dishes that appeal to a global audience.

Special Meals and Dietary Requirements

In 2019, Emirates airline served over 110 million meals on board its flights, with over 70 million special meals requested by passengers with dietary requirements. Airlines are increasingly catering to diverse diets, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and religious preferences. To ensure you receive a meal that meets your needs, be sure to request a special meal at least 24 hours before your flight.

The Cost of Airplane Food: What to Expect

For domestic US flights, the average cost of a meal is around $10, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Prices may vary depending on the airline and the type of meal, so it's essential to research and budget accordingly. Many airlines also offer complimentary snacks and beverages on shorter flights.

Flora Goodwin's Insider Tips and Personal Experiences

Flora Goodwin shares her personal insights and secret tips for navigating airplane food options:

• Pre-order your meal: Some airlines allow you to pre-order your meal, ensuring you get your preferred choice.
• BYO snacks: If you're unsure about the food offerings, bring your own snacks as a backup.
• Stay hydrated: Airplane cabins can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your flight.
• Explore airport food options: If you have a layover, take the opportunity to try local cuisine or find healthier options in the airport before boarding your next flight.

Although airplane food has had a bad reputation, the tides are turning. Airlines are investing in better ingredients and diverse meal options, ensuring passengers can enjoy delicious in-flight meals. Do your research, r equest special meals , and follow Flora Goodwin's insider tips for a satisfying culinary experience on your next flight.

Which airlines have the best airplane food?

Qatar Airways, Air New Zealand, and Singapore Airlines are known for offering top-notch in-flight meals according to AirlineRatings.com.

How can I request a special meal for my dietary requirements?

Most airlines allow you to request special meals at least 24 hours before your flight. Check the airline's website or contact their customer service for more information.

What is the average cost of a meal on a domestic US flight?

The average cost of a meal on a domestic US flight is around $10, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

What are some tips for having a better airplane food experience?

Pre-order your meal, bring your own snacks, stay hydrated, and explore airport food options during layovers for a better culinary experience during your flight.

Has the quality of airplane food improved in recent years?

Yes, the quality of airplane food has improved dramatically over the past decade, with airlines investing in fresher ingredients and collaborations with celebrity chefs.

You should also check out: Airplane meal hacks

• AirlineRatings.com. (n.d.). Best Airline Food 2020. https://www.airlineratings.com
• Emirates. (n.d.). Emirates Airline Food Facts. https://www.emirates.com
• Bureau of Transportation Statistics. (n.d.). Consumer Air Fare Report. https://www.bts.gov