Can I have an extra flight meal? Insiders share tips

Many people mistakenly believe that airplane meals are allocated based on the number of passengers, and asking for an extra one will cause trouble for the crew, so even if they haven't eaten enough, they feel embarrassed to speak up. However, insiders have revealed that airlines usually reserve 10% -15% of spare portions when preparing in-flight meals. This is to meet special needs that may arise during the flight, such as passengers adding meals temporarily or accidentally spilling meals, and to avoid passenger dissatisfaction caused by insufficient portions. This is also the core prerequisite for being able to order an extra in-flight meal - the existence of spare portions provides the possibility of "ordering an extra".

To succeed, getting an extra airplane meal requires timing and language skills, which are also the core tricks summarized by insiders. Firstly, seize the golden opportunity for ordering and delivering meals. Do not wait until all passengers have received their meals and the crew has started tidying up the food truck before speaking up. At this point, the backup meals may have already been allocated. It is best to ask softly when the flight attendant is just starting to deliver the meal and asks which type of meal you have chosen, "Hello, do you have any extra meals? I have a large appetite and would like to order an extra one, please." The tone is polite and humble, and most flight attendants are willing to help inquire.

Secondly, learn to be flexible and adaptable, adjusting the request method according to the flight situation. If it is a long-distance flight (with a flight time exceeding 6 hours), the crew has a higher acceptance of passengers' requests for additional meals, and can directly state the demand at this time; If it is a short haul flight and the number of backup meals is limited, it can be expressed tactfully as "one meal may not be enough, if there are extra meals, please keep one for me", which not only provides enough space for the flight attendants, but also increases the success rate. In addition, try to choose front or back seats as the cabin crew in these areas is responsible for fewer passengers, giving you more time to respond to your needs and making it easier to notice backup meals.

In addition to timing and language, there are also a few small energy-saving measures that increase the probability of having meals on the plane. Insiders remind not to wait until you are extremely hungry to speak up, expressing your needs in advance is easier to be satisfied; If there are special meals on the flight (such as vegetarian or children's meals), do not ask for them randomly. Prioritize inquiring about the reserve capacity of regular meals to avoid adding extra workload to the crew; In addition, maintaining politeness throughout the entire process and actively cooperating with the crew's work, such as timely receiving meals and expressing gratitude softly, a good communication atmosphere will make the crew more willing to provide assistance.

It should be noted that not all flights can successfully obtain in-flight meals. If the flight is full, the passenger demand is concentrated, or all the backup meals have been allocated, the flight attendant may politely refuse. At this time, there is no need to force, but you can ask if there are snacks, bread, etc. to replenish energy. Most flights will be equipped with backup snacks. In addition, low-cost airlines usually do not provide free in-flight meals. If there is a need for additional meals, they must be purchased in advance on the official website or before boarding, and cannot be requested on-site for free.