The flight catering system is illustrated in Figure 2. This model represents only an
outline of the process flow in flight catering, since such operations have a number of
alternative configurations. Flight catering starts with an understanding of the number
of passengers and their needs; such information is available from both market
research and actual passenger behaviour. On the basis of this, airlines, sometimes in
consultation with caterers and suppliers, develop their product and service
specifications. Such specifications determine exactly what food, drink and equipment
items are to be carried on each route for each class of passenger. In response to
forecasts of passenger numbers on any given flight, the production unit follows a
series of complex steps to produce trayed meals and non-food items ready for
transportation to the aircraft.
Transportation is usually carried out by using specialist high-loader trucks that enable
trolleys to be rolled on and off aircraft. Once loaded, trolleys and other items need to
be stowed on board to ensure the microbial safety of edible items and the security
and safety of the crew, passengers and aircraft. At the designated time during the
flight, the cabin crew then carry out the service of meals, snacks and other items.
Upon arrival at its destination, each aircraft is then stripped of all the equipment and
trolleys, which are returned to the production units for cleaning and re-use. In
achieving this, it is necessary to understand the impact of flying on the physiology of
the passenger, to manage a complex supply chain, ensure the safety and quality of
the product, utilise increasingly sophisticated information and communication
technologies, and engage in on-going research and developmen