The FPML (Fruit Platter Meal) is a meal featuring fresh fruit.
It’s perfect for religious fasting, works when other special meal options aren’t available, and provides a light, natural choice for travellers who prefer minimal, unprocessed food.
The FPML is the simplest special meal option available, consisting entirely of fresh, seasonal fruit.
Unlike other special meals that replace regular airline food with alternative preparations, the fruit platter is genuinely just fruit, making it suitable for the most restrictive dietary requirements.
Most airlines offer a selection of seasonal, fresh fruits that are easy to eat during the flight.
You’ll typically receive items like apple slices, orange segments, grapes, melon pieces, and berries.
Some airlines may include dried fruits (usually without sulphites), but the focus is on fresh, minimally processed options that require no cooking or complex preparation.
What’s included
- Fresh seasonal fruits (apples, oranges, grapes)
- Melon varieties (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew)
- Berries (when available)
- Sometimes dried fruit without sulphites
- Cut fruit pieces for easy eating
- Natural fruit presentation without additives
What’s never included: Vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, dairy products, grains, nuts, processed foods, additives, preservatives, or caffeinated beverages.
Dietary notes: Naturally vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and suitable for most religious dietary restrictions. However, cross-contamination is possible during preparation; therefore, please get in touch with the airline if you have severe allergies.
How to Order
Available on most airlines worldwide as it’s simple to prepare.
Should be pre-ordered at least 24-48 hours before departure.
During booking โ Select the special meal option and choose FPML
After booking โ Call the airline or manage booking online
Travel agent bookings โ Contact your agent
Important: Consider whether fruit alone will provide sufficient nutrition for your journey, especially on longer flights.
Alternatives
RVML (Raw Vegetarian) โ Raw fruits and vegetables if you want more variety
VGML (Vegan) โ Cooked vegan meal with more substantial nutrition.
VJML (Jain) โ Very restrictive but includes more food variety than just fruit
BLML (Bland) โ If you need gentle foods but want more than just fruit
Bring your food โ If you need specific fruits or more substantial nutrition
Explore Airline Options
Find specific meal information for your airline.
FAQs
Is FPML filling enough for a long flight?
Probably not. Fruits provide natural sugars and vitamins but are limited in protein and complex carbohydrates. Consider bringing additional approved foods for longer journeys.
Is FPML suitable for religious fasting periods?
Yes, fruit platters are commonly used during religious fasts when specific food restrictions apply; however, please check with your religious guidelines for confirmation.
Can I request specific fruits?
Most airlines provide seasonal fruits based on availability and cannot accommodate particular fruit requests, but you can request them when ordering.
