The CHML (Child Meal) is for young travellers aged 2-12 years, these meals typically feature kid friendly favourites like pasta, chicken nuggets, and familiar snacks that can help avoid mealtime battles at 35,000 feet.
Airlines understand that children can be picky eaters, especially in unfamiliar environments, so these meals prioritise foods that most kids recognise and enjoy.
You’ll typically see items like pasta with tomato sauce, chicken nuggets or strips, rice dishes, and familiar sides like bread rolls or crackers.
Presentation often includes colourful packaging, fun utensils, or small toys to make the meal more appealing to young travellers.
The goal is to provide nutrition while avoiding foods that might be too spicy, exotic, or challenging for children who are already dealing with the stress of flying.
What’s included
- Familiar main dishes (pasta, chicken nuggets, rice)
- Mild sauces (tomato, cheese-based)
- Kid-friendly sides (bread rolls, crackers, corn)
- Sweet treats (cookies, fruit cups, small chocolates)
- Juice boxes or soft drinks
- Sometimes, small toys or activity items
- Easy-to-use utensils
What’s never included: Spicy foods, exotic cuisines, complex flavours, nuts (choking hazard), overly saucy dishes, or foods with intense flavours that children typically reject.
Dietary notes: Typically contains gluten (such as pasta and bread) dairy products, and may contain common allergens. It is not automatically suitable for individuals with food allergies. Please contact the airline if your child has specific dietary restrictions that require special accommodations.
How to Order
Available on most airlines worldwide for flights with meal service.
Should be pre-ordered at least 24-48 hours before departure.
During booking โ Select the special meal option and specify the child’s age
After booking โ Call the airline or manage booking online
Travel agent bookings โ Contact your agent
Please specify your child’s age when ordering, as some airlines offer different meal options for children of various ages.
Alternatives
BBML (Baby Meal) โ For infants under 2 years
FPML (Fruit Platter) โ Healthy option some kids prefer
Regular adult meal โ If your child is adventurous with food
Bring your snacks โ Backup plan for very picky eaters
Explore Your Airline
Find specific meal information for your airline.
FAQs
What age range qualifies for CHML?
Typically, it is 2-12 years, though some airlines extend it to 14 years. Infants under two would receive BBML (Baby Meal) instead.
Will my picky eater eat this food?
Consider bringing backup snacks.
Can I order CHML for a child who’s almost 13?
Policies vary. Some allow flexibility, while others are strict about age limits. Contact the airline directly if your child is at the age boundary.
Are children’s meals automatically nut-free?
Not always. Contact the airline.
What if my child has food allergies?
Contact the airline. You may need a different special meal code or should bring your safe foods.
Do I have to pay extra for children’s airline meals?
No, special meals, including CHML, are typically provided at no additional charge on flights that include complimentary meal service.
