If you have ever booked an international flight to or from India, you may have noticed special meal codes such as HNML, AVML, and VJML. These airline meal codes help passengers choose food that matches their dietary or religious preferences.
On a recent long-haul flight from New York to Delhi, I requested a Hindu Meal (HNML). The meal included chicken curry, basmati rice, vegetables, and bread — all prepared without beef or pork in accordance with Hindu dietary traditions.
This guide explains what a Hindu Meal (HNML) is, what foods are included, how it differs from vegetarian and Jain meals, and how you can request it on international flights.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Hindu Meal (HNML)
The Hindu Meal (HNML) is a special airline meal designed for passengers who follow Hindu dietary traditions. In aviation terminology, HNML stands for Hindu Non-Vegetarian Meal.
These meals usually feature Indian or South Asian cuisine and avoid ingredients that are traditionally restricted in Hindu diets.
- No beef or veal
- No pork products
- No raw or smoked fish
- Meals often include chicken, lamb, fish, vegetables, and dairy
Foods Included in a Hindu Meal (HNML)
The exact menu varies by airline, but most Hindu meals contain dishes inspired by Indian cuisine.
- Chicken curry or lamb curry
- Fish prepared with Indian spices
- Basmati rice or pulao
- Vegetable curry or sabzi
- Indian breads like naan or chapati
- Yogurt or raita
- Desserts such as kheer or halwa
Foods Avoided in Hindu Meals
To respect religious dietary practices, the following ingredients are not used in Hindu airline meals:
- Beef
- Pork
- Raw fish
- Smoked fish
HNML vs AVML vs Jain Meal
| Meal Type | Code | Diet Type | Main Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hindu Meal | HNML | Non-Vegetarian | No beef or pork |
| Indian Vegetarian Meal | AVML | Vegetarian | No meat, fish, or eggs |
| Jain Meal | VJML | Strict Vegetarian | No root vegetables (onion, garlic, potato) |
How to Request a Hindu Meal on Flights
You can request a Hindu meal while booking your ticket or through the airline’s manage booking section.
- Book your flight ticket
- Open the “Special Meals” option
- Select HNML – Hindu Non-Vegetarian Meal
- Confirm at least 24 hours before departure
Common Airline Special Meal Codes
- HNML – Hindu Non-Vegetarian Meal
- AVML – Asian / Indian Vegetarian Meal
- VJML – Jain Vegetarian Meal
- VGML – Vegan Meal
- DBML – Diabetic Meal
Best Airlines for Special Meals
Several international airlines are known for offering high-quality special meals.
- Air India – Authentic Indian meal options including HNML and AVML
- Emirates – Wide range of special meals with premium ingredients
- Singapore Airlines – High-quality vegetarian and Hindu meal options
- Qatar Airways – Excellent Indian-style special meals
- Vistara – Premium Indian-inspired meals on international routes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hindu meal for HNML?
The Hindu Meal (HNML) is a non-vegetarian airline meal prepared without beef or pork. It usually includes dishes such as chicken curry, lamb, fish, rice, vegetables, and Indian bread.
What does HNML stand for?
HNML stands for Hindu Non-Vegetarian Meal, a special airline meal that follows Hindu dietary restrictions.
Is HNML vegetarian?
No. HNML is a non-vegetarian meal. If you prefer vegetarian Indian food, you should request an AVML (Asian Vegetarian Meal).
Can I request HNML on domestic flights?
Most airlines offer special meals mainly on international routes. Availability on domestic flights depends on the airline.
Related Travel Guides
- Inflight Food Vegetarian Meals
- Jain Airline Meals (VJML)
- Diabetic Meal on Flights (DBML)
- Airline Meals Guide
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