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How Do I Order A Special Meal With Virgin Atlantic?

  • Writer: Helena
    Helena
  • May 21
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 4

Flying with dietary restrictions like me? Let's face it, it is one of the most frustrating experiences you can if you have an allergy or an intolerance.


A woman and man smile at each other with drinks on a table in a dimly lit purple booth, while a masked attendant in red takes notes.
Ordering a dietary specific meal prior to your flight is quick and easy with Virgin Atlantic

Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, lactose intolerant, gluten-free, diabetic, or follow a religious diet, Virgin Atlantic makes it easy to order a special dietary meal - especially through their app. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to order a special meal on Virgin Atlantic using their app, so you can fly in comfort and confidence.



Why Order a Special Meal on Virgin Atlantic?


Virgin Atlantic offers a variety of special dietary meals to accommodate passengers with medical, religious, or lifestyle dietary needs. These include:


  • Vegetarian (Asian, Hindu, Jain, Lacto-Ovo)

  • Vegan

  • Gluten-intolerant

  • Low lactose

  • Diabetic

  • Kosher

  • Halal

  • Low-fat or low-sodium options


Ordering ahead ensures you’re catered for and helps the airline prepare your meal fresh and accurately. Quite often airlines do not hold vegan menus or anything else on the above list as standard so it really is always the best option to book this ahead of time.


How to Order a Special Dietary Meal with Virgin Atlantic (Step-by-Step)


To order a special meal, follow these steps using the Virgin Atlantic mobile app:


1. Download and Open the Virgin Atlantic App

Make sure you have the latest version of the Virgin Atlantic app, available for both iOS and Android.


2. Log in to Your Booking

  • Open the app and log in with your Flying Club account or booking reference.

  • Tap on “My Bookings” to find your upcoming flight.

Flight booking app screen showing details for a flight to New York on May 19th, 4:50 PM-7:40 PM. Sky Priority displayed.
Choose the flight you wish to order the meal on.
3. Select Your Flight

  • Tap the flight you want to add a special meal to.

  • Look for the option titled “Manage My Booking”, “Add Special Requests" or in this case "Accessible Services" and select this.


Flight info: LHR to JFK, May 19, 4:50 PM. Virgin Atlantic, Airbus A350-1000, Upper Class seat 9A. Flight time 7h 50m, On Time.
Click on Accessible Services.
4. Request a Special Meal

  • Select “Meal Preferences” or “Special Dietary Requirements.”

  • Choose from the list of available special meals.

  • Confirm your choice and save changes.



Phone screen showing a Virgin Atlantic "Special Assistance Request" pop-up with "Cancel" and "OK" buttons. Time is 10:26.
Hit "OK" on the assistance pop up.
Airline app meal selection screen. Vegan meal chosen for LHR-JFK flight. Red "Save Request" button, text says 24hr notice needed.
Select your chosen meal from the drop down menu
Flight assistance screen showing meal and special assistance options, including vegetarian meal, wheelchair, hearing, and visual aid info.
Once done you will see a green tick.

Important: You must request your special meal at least 24 to 48 hours before departure, depending on the meal type and flight route.



Can You Change Your Special Meal After Ordering?


Yes you sure can. You can modify or cancel your special meal request up until the cutoff time by revisiting the “Meal Preferences"section in the app. Be sure to double-check before the 24 - 48 hour deadline.


What If You Can't Find the Meal Option in the App?


If you don’t see the option in the app, try the following:


  • Visit Virgin Atlantic’s website and log in to Manage My Booking as it may appear there

  • Call their customer service team to add a meal manually, or email them. My experience of their customer service has been nothing short of foot perfect. Prior to flying to the Maldives in 2024 I couldn’t find the low lactose meal on the app or on the website, so I dropped them an email and within 2 hours it was all sorted.


A table with various dishes including peas, pasta, and red velvet cake on white plates. A hand holds a fork. Silver pig salt shakers are also visible.
The food and drinks on offer with Virgin Atlantic are always good

Pro Tips for Flying with Dietary Restrictions


  • Pack snacks just in case. You may not need them, but it is always best to be prepared.

  • Remind the flight attendant about your special meal when you board.

  • Double-check your request before flying.



Conclusion


Ordering a special dietary meal with Virgin Atlantic via their app is straightforward, but timing is key. By logging into your booking through the Virgin Atlantic app and selecting your meal preference under “Manage My Booking,” you can ensure your dietary needs are met with ease.


Now you know the answer to: How do I order a special dietary meal with Virgin Atlantic?

Safe travels and happy eating!


Helena


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