Latvian airline airBaltic has launched a new food-ordering system that lets passengers fully customize their in-flight meals.
“Our customer is at the center of this innovative service,” said Michael Grimme, CCO of airBaltic. “Now travelers are in control of selecting their preferred items on a virtual tray and creating their own in-flight meal.”
The airline’s system offers more than 70 pre-order options, including vegetarian choices like vegetable risotto, Mediterranean dishes such as fish souvlaki, Asian-inspired items like teriyaki salmon, and classic mains including grilled pork or chicken breast. The menu is rounded out with nine salads and nine desserts, allowing passengers to mix and match starters, mains and sweets to suit their tastes.
Passengers can place their meal order either during booking or up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure, ensuring the airline has time to prepare and provide the selected dishes on board.
This move reflects a broader trend in aviation toward greater personalization and improved passenger experience by giving travelers more control over what they eat while flying. By offering a wide range of choices and a flexible ordering window, airBaltic aims to address diverse dietary preferences and enhance satisfaction on board.
Pre-ordering meals can also benefit passengers with specific dietary requirements or food allergies, as choosing meals in advance allows travelers to confirm ingredients and select options that meet their needs. For frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike, having the ability to tailor a meal adds convenience and reduces the uncertainty often associated with airplane food.
Airlines increasingly view catering as part of the overall service proposition rather than a simple add-on. Systems that enable customization help carriers differentiate their product, create ancillary revenue opportunities, and build loyalty by improving the passenger experience.
The new airBaltic offering is available through the carrier’s meal portal and is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly, guiding passengers through choices and combinations so they can assemble a meal that fits their preferences. With a wide selection and clear ordering window, travelers can plan ahead and enjoy a meal they selected themselves.
By combining variety, flexibility and ease of use, airBaltic’s customized meal pre-order system aims to raise expectations for onboard dining and provide a more comfortable, personalized journey for passengers.