United lets Economy passengers preorder fresh meals on longer flights, aiming to boost choice, streamline catering, and cut food waste.
United Airlines said passengers can now preorder fresh United Economy meals—such as burgers and sandwiches—through the airline’s website and mobile app, expanding a program designed to give travelers more choice while improving operational efficiency.
The option is available on flights longer than 1,190 miles within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Beginning March 1, preordering will become the only way Economy passengers can purchase fresh entrées onboard. However, United will continue to sell its signature snack boxes, packaged snacks, and beverages during flights.
The airline said the move is also expected to support its efforts to reduce food waste. By aligning catering more closely with demand, United estimates it will keep more than 100,000 pounds of unused fresh food out of landfills each year.
United plans to expand the preorder menu later this year, adding options such as elevated salads, gourmet sandwiches, and wraps, along with preorder-exclusive premium beverages.
The carrier first introduced meal preordering for premium cabins in its mobile app in 2021, reporting a nearly 40 percent increase in customer satisfaction scores on domestic flights after the rollout.
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“We’re continuing to invest in meaningful improvements to our onboard food and beverage program, with a focus on quality, consistency, and customer choice,” said Aaron McMillan, managing director of hospitality programs at United. “Preordering is a win for everyone—customers know they’ll get the meal they want, our catering partners prepare exactly what’s needed, and it helps reduce food waste.”
Customers can preorder meals beginning five days and up to 24 hours before departure through the United app or united.com. App users will receive a notification when preordering opens for their flight, with menus featuring items such as the Steakhouse Burger, tacos al pastor, and fresh cheese and fruit trays.
