United Economy customers can now order fresh meals before their flight through the airline’s website and mobile app.
United introduced meal pre-ordering for premium cabins in the United app in 2021 and says it saw customer satisfaction scores for domestic flights increase by almost 40%. The pre-ordering of economy meals, starting 1 March, will be available on flights over 1,190 miles within the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean and will be the only way to purchase fresh entrees in the Economy cabin. United’s Economy snack boxes, packaged snacks and beverages can still be purchased on board.
United expects this move to improve meal availability, catering efficiency and food-waste reduction. The airline estimates this will save more than 100,000 pounds of unused food going into landfill each year.
The airline says additional fresh meal choices will be added to the pre-order menu this summer and will feature elevated salads, gourmet sandwiches and wraps. More preorder-exclusive premium beverage options are also planned for later this year.
“We’re continuing to invest in meaningful improvements to our onboard food and beverage programme, with a focus on quality, consistency and customer choice,” said Aaron McMillan, Managing Director of Hospitality Programs at United.
Both fresh Bistro on Board and retail items are available to order in advance through the mobile app or on united.com, beginning five days and up to 24 hours before departure.
