The VGML (Vegan Meal) eliminates all meat, dairy, eggs, and animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for strict vegans.
The good news is that vegan meals are now widely available on most airlines as plant-based eating becomes more mainstream.
However, the quality varies dramatically – you might get anything from a flavourful plant-based curry to a sad collection of steamed vegetables.
The VGML avoids all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, honey, and any animal-derived ingredients.
These meals are entirely plant-based, making them suitable for ethical vegans, environmental vegans, and anyone avoiding animal products for health reasons.
Most airlines offer meals featuring plant-based proteins, such as legumes, tofu, or tempeh, along with vegetables, grains, and vegan sauces.
The quality of vegan airline meals has improved significantly as airlines recognise the growing demand for plant-based options.
Some carriers now offer genuinely delicious vegan meals that rival their regular options, while others still serve basic combinations of vegetables and grains.
What’s included
- Plant-based proteins (tofu, tempeh, legumes, nuts)
- Vegetables and salads
- Grains and pasta with vegan sauces
- Fresh fruits
- Plant-based milk alternatives
- Vegan bread and desserts (when available)
- Dairy-free and egg-free preparations
What’s never included: Meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, honey, gelatin, or any ingredients derived from animals, including hidden animal-based additives.
Dietary notes: Completely plant-based and suitable for vegans, but may still contain gluten, nuts, or other allergens. It is not automatically ideal for other nutritional restrictions beyond avoiding animal products.
How to Order
Widely available on most airlines, vegan meals are now a mainstream option.
Should be pre-ordered at least 24-48 hours before departure.
During booking – Select the special meal option and choose VGML
After booking – Call the airline or manage booking online
Travel agent bookings – Contact your agent
Necessary: Some airlines use “vegetarian” and “vegan” interchangeably – confirm that VGML contains no dairy or eggs.
Alternatives
VLML (Vegetarian Lacto-Ovo) – Contains dairy and eggs, suitable for vegetarians but not vegans
AVML (Asian Vegetarian) – Indian-style vegetarian, usually contains dairy
FPML (Fruit Platter) – Naturally vegan but very limited nutrition
VJML (Jain Vegetarian) – Vegan and avoids root vegetables
RVML (Raw Vegetarian) – Raw vegan foods only, very restrictive
Discover Airline Options
Find specific meal information for your airline.
FAQs
What’s the difference between VGML and VLML?
VGML (vegan) contains no animal products at all, while VLML (vegetarian) may contain dairy and eggs. Vegans should specifically request VGML.
Are vegan airline meals good?
Quality varies dramatically by airline. Some carriers now offer excellent plant-based meals, while others provide basic vegetable combinations. Premium airlines typically offer more comprehensive vegan options.
Can I get vegan meals on short domestic flights?
Availability depends on whether the flight includes meal service. Many domestic flights only offer snacks, but vegan meal options are available on flights with full meal service.
