The World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo in Hamburg

Culinary delights, comfort, and innovation for tomorrow's travel experience

The World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo (WTCE) in Hamburg is the world's leading trade fair for in-flight catering, cabin equipment, and service innovations in the travel industry. It brings together the global travel industry with its most important equipment, technology, and catering partners—a must-attend event for airlines, rail operators, cruise lines, and their suppliers. Since its inception, WTCE has developed into the most important platform for everything that makes the travel experience on board more pleasant, efficient, and enjoyable. Every year, hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of trade visitors from over 80 countries meet at the Hamburg Messe exhibition center to discover new products, discuss industry trends, and establish business partnerships.

Everything for the cabin: from the menu to the mattress

The diversity of exhibitors ranges from large catering companies to specialized niche providers. Products and services for all aspects of onboard service are presented: food and beverages, packaging solutions, hygiene products, comfort accessories, uniforms, logistics systems, entertainment, and digital services. Innovations in the area of sustainability – such as reusable packaging, CO₂-compensated products, plant-based menus, and recyclable materials – always receive special attention. This is not only about environmental protection, but also about more efficient processes and new service concepts that meet the requirements of modern passenger groups.

Trends and new nutritional needs in focus

Changing eating habits among travelers are reflected in a growing number of products: gluten-free snacks, vegan dishes, halal-certified offerings, clean eating concepts, and functional foods with specific health benefits are now part of the standard repertoire of many caterers. The WTCE shows how catering concepts are dynamically adapting to new requirements—including through the use of new kitchen technologies and logistics solutions. The trade fair also provides inspiration through live cooking shows, tastings, workshops, and the presentation of entire menu lines tailored to specific flight routes, cultures, or travel durations.

In-flight service as a brand experience

More and more travel providers see in-flight service as part of their brand strategy. Comfort elements such as blankets, pillows, amenity kits, fragrances, and individual entertainment shape the travel experience just as much as the choice of food. At WTCE, manufacturers therefore present design solutions that combine comfort, function, and brand identity – from high-quality business class equipment to practical economy packaging. Digitalization also plays a role here: interactive menus, app-based ordering, wireless streaming, and personalized service offerings using AI-supported tools are increasingly changing everyday life on board.

Cooperation with Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX)

The WTCE takes place parallel to the renowned Aircraft Interiors Expo – a combination that makes Hamburg a global hotspot for cabin solutions. While AIX focuses on seats, lighting, materials, and cabin architecture, WTCE is dedicated to the more emotional side of flying: service, hospitality, and the sensory experience on board. Anyone interested in other trade fairs in the region will find a comprehensive overview at Hamburg Trade Fair.

Networking, expertise, and future prospects

At the heart of WTCE is its extensive conference and networking program. Whether strategic panels on service trends, workshops on hygiene standards, or discussions on climate-friendly catering, the event program offers insightful inspiration for all areas. In addition, there will be targeted business matchmaking sessions, speed dating, and exclusive networking events that promote exchange and cooperation—both for established market leaders and for young companies and start-ups.

Hygiene, health, and safety as key industry topics

WTCE. Many exhibitors will be presenting products and concepts that go beyond traditional disinfection: contactless services, antimicrobial-coated materials, smart air filters, and training solutions for cabin crew have long been part of the standard offering.

Hamburg – a platform for sustainable mobility

Located in one of Europe's most important logistics and air transport regions, Hamburg is the ideal venue for the WTCE. The city combines industry, research, design, and tourism – and offers a fertile environment for new ideas in the travel segment. The WTCE in Hamburg symbolizes the transformation of travel: away from transportation and toward experience. It shows how service quality, environmental awareness, and technological innovation can go hand in hand – to the benefit of companies and passengers alike. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.worldtravelcateringexpo.com