Sometimes this happens in the morning. Often, it does not. Many airlines go with breakfast as the second meal on all overnight flights, whether they land at 7 a.m. or 4 p.m. Some even serve it on flights most passengers don't consider redeyes.

On long-haul international "red-eye" flights in 2026, a full meal service remains standard in most cabins, but the timing has changed to prioritize sleep. Typically, a "supper" or hot dinner is served roughly 90 minutes after takeoff, and a light breakfast (often a pastry or fruit) is served 90 minutes before landing. However, for shorter "overnight" flights (like New York to London or Perth to Sydney), many airlines have moved toward a "Dine on the Ground" or "Express Service" model. In this setup, the airline may only offer a snack box to maximize the four or five hours of potential sleep time. If you are flying on a budget carrier like Zipair or French Bee, meals are rarely included unless pre-purchased. In 2026, "Dine on Demand" has also expanded into Premium Economy for some carriers, allowing you to choose when you eat. If you have specific dietary needs, you must still request your special meal at least 24 hours in advance to ensure it is loaded onto the aircraft.