Call Us:- 1-866-235-8886
Are you a vegetarian person flying from Canada to India and wondering what food you’ll get on board? You’re not the only one wondering that. Be it for faith, lifestyle, or just personal choice, more Canadians are now choosing airlines that offer proper vegetarian or vegan meals — not just a side salad or plain rice.
The good news? Most major airlines on India routes now offer dedicated vegetarian options that taste just as comforting as a home-cooked meal. From Air India’s spicy dal and sabzi to Qatar Airways’ perfectly seasoned lentil curries, there’s plenty to look forward to.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
When you book a flight, you might see odd meal codes like “VGML” or “AVML.” These aren’t just random letters — they’re IATA meal codes, recognised globally by all airlines and catering teams.
Here’s what those terms really mean:
| Code | Meaning | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| VGML | Vegetarian Vegan Meal | No animal products at all — 100% plant-based |
| AVML | Asian Vegetarian Meal | Indian-style vegetarian (includes dairy, no meat or eggs) |
| VJML | Vegetarian Jain Meal | Strict Jain food — no root vegetables, onions, or garlic |
| VLML | Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian Meal | Vegetarian diet including dairy and eggs |
*Tip: Always mention the exact code (like “AVML”) when booking your trip. It ensures the correct meal is loaded onboard — especially on connecting flights.
Let’s take a friendly walk through the main airlines Canadian travellers choose for India — and what vegetarian meals you can expect on each.
If you take a direct flight from Toronto to Delhi, Air India will serve you authentic Indian vegetarian food. You’ll find plenty of vegetarian favourites onboard — from paneer butter masala to chana curry and aloo methi, all served with bread and dessert.
Meal options – AVML, VGML, VJML
Most Air India flights to India include veg meals by default, though you can always choose one that fits your dietary needs.
Bonus – Jain meals (VJML) are available on request — something few international airlines offer!
Air Canada does a great job with special meal requests. They offer VGML (vegan) and AVML (Asian vegetarian) meals on all flights to India, including their Toronto to Delhi and Vancouver to Mumbai routes (often via codeshare).
Meal options – VGML, AVML
How to order – Log in to Manage My Booking and add your meal preference at least 48 hours before departure.
What to expect – The menu features lighter vegetarian fare — plant-based curries, lentil stews, and sautéed veggies with global flavours.
If you’re flying via Dubai, get ready for great food — Emirates offers delicious Asian Vegetarian (AVML) and Vegan (VGML) options.
Meal options – AVML, VGML, VJML (on select routes)
What you’ll get – Mildly spiced Indian meals with rice, dal, and a touch of sweetness for dessert.
Fun fact – Emirates’ special meals are free — just order 24 hours before your flight.
Qatar Airways, connecting through Doha, is another favourite for Canada–India travellers. Their vegetarian meals are thoughtfully prepared, whether you’re flying economy or business class.
Meal options – VGML, AVML
What to expect – High-quality, aromatic dishes with balanced spices — think lentils, paneer curry, or couscous salad with Indian flair.
Tip – Request your meal while booking your Tripbeam flight, and reconfirm on Qatar’s website 24 hours before departure.
Etihad, via Abu Dhabi, is one of the few international carriers offering VJML (Jain) meals regularly.
Meal options – VGML, AVML, VJML
What to expect – Light, authentic Indian dishes, often prepared without onion or garlic when requested.
Tip – Add your special meal during booking and reconfirm at web check-in — they’re quite punctual with meal requests.
Flying via London or Frankfurt? You’ll still get good vegetarian options. Both British Airways and Lufthansa serve AVML and VJML meals that blend Indian recipes with continental presentation.
Meal options – AVML, VGML, VJML
Tip – Both allow you to manage your special meal request online up to 24 hours before departure.
Taste check – Expect subtle, mildly spiced dishes — less “masala” than Air India, but tasty nonetheless.
If you’re flying on charter or seasonal routes with Air Transat or WestJet, vegetarian options are available but may require advance notice.
Meal options – AVML, VGML
Important – Request at least 48 hours before departure, as not all routes carry special meals.
Flying long-haul doesn’t mean compromising your vegetarian lifestyle. Whether you’re vegan, Jain, or simply prefer Indian vegetarian food, the right airline can make all the difference.
When you book through Tripbeam Canada, you don’t just get cheap airfares — you get peace of mind knowing your meal preferences will be taken care of, from take-off to touchdown.
So next time you plan your Toronto to Delhi, skip the confusion, pick your preferred airline, and let us handle the rest.
Book cheap flights to India from Canada today — and enjoy a stress-free, vegetarian-friendly journey back home.
A) Use AVML — it stands for Asian Vegetarian Meal, ideal for Indian travellers.
A) Yes, most full-service airlines like Air India, Etihad, and British Airways offer
A) Log in to your airline’s website or Tripbeam portal → “Manage Booking” → Add Special Meal → Choose VGML, AVML, or VJML.
A) Absolutely! All special meals are included in your fare — just pre-order them.
A) Inform the cabin crew; they’ll try to accommodate you. Still, carry a small snack just in case (especially for connecting flights).
Tell us more details to help better
