The Indian government has permitted airlines to serve pre-packed meals and beverages on domestic flights and hot meals on international flights reported Press Trust of India.

Owing to the pandemic, inflight meal services were suspended on domestic flights since their resumption on May 25. In the case of international operations, only pre-packaged foods were being served, depending upon the flight duration.

The civil aviation ministry’s latest order states that airlines may now serve pre-packed snacks/meals/beverages on domestic routes depending on the duration of the flight.

Likewise, airlines and charter flight operators can serve hot meals and limited beverages on international flights.

Single-use disposable trays, plates and cutlery should be used while serving food or beverages onboard. The crew shall wear a fresh set of gloves for every meal/beverage service.

In addition, the aviation ministry has permitted the use of inflight entertainment system on international as well as domestic flights. Disposable earphones or disinfected headphones need to be provided to passengers.

civilaviation.gov.in, dgca.gov.in, aai.aero