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Last week, I wrote about United Airlines shifting its pre-order program to include Economy Class and allow customers to reserve fresh meals such as burgers and sandwiches before departure through the airline’s website and mobile app. Premier 1K® and Global Services members are entitled to a complimentary food item when seated in Economy Class. The entitlement remains the same, but how this will be provided is about to change.
Beginning February 1st, passengers will be able to pre-order fresh bistro items on all eligible flights. One month later, on March 1st, these food items will no longer be stocked for general onboard purchase and will instead be available exclusively through preorder. The updates affect Premier 1K® and Global Services members who currently enjoy one complimentary food item and one complimentary alcoholic beverage on qualifying United Economy flights. United says the change ensures that elite customers are more likely to receive their first-choice menu option rather than settling for whatever remains during inflight service. It also aligns with broader industry trends aimed at eliminating spoilage and streamlining catering logistics.
Pre-ordering windows will open five days before departure and close 24 hours before takeoff. Items such as snack boxes and alcoholic beverages will continue to be stocked and ordered onboard as usual. Premier 1K® and Global Services members will order fresh food the same as any other passenger, but United notes that charges will not be applied unless additional items beyond the complimentary allotment are selected.
United has been steadily expanding pre-order capabilities on domestic and international flights and the rollout of pre-order-only fresh bistro items marks the next step in the carrier’s digital retail strategy. By shifting selection to preflight, United aims to improve inventory accuracy, reduce waste, and eliminate the scenario in which its most loyal customers miss out on their preferred meal options.
Anthony’s Take: I think this makes sense given the airline will no longer stock extra fresh food. Since upgrades rarely clear, this will give passengers a guaranteed meal on flights that serve them.
(Image Credits: United Airlines.)
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
