Special Meals
United Airlines offers special dietary meals to accommodate various needs and preferences.
Flight Eligibility
| ROUTE TYPE | AVAILABILITY | CABIN CLASSES |
|---|---|---|
| International (2,000+ miles) | All special meals available | All cabins with meal service |
| Hawaii routes | All special meals available | Main Cabin and premium cabins |
| Premium transcontinental | All special meals available | Premium cabins only |
| Domestic routes | Not available | Buy-on-board only |
Important
Advance Notice: Minimum 24 hours before departure
Limited Routes: Only available on flights with complimentary meal service
No Substitutions: United does not offer the extensive meal code list (20+ options) available on other airlines
Children’s Meals: Must be specifically requested, not automatically provided for child passengers
Special Meals List
IATA Code: AVML
This Indian-style vegetarian meal features authentic spices, proper seasonings, and ingredients like paneer and basmati rice, making it worth pre-ordering. Here’s everything you need to know about getting the AVML on your next flight.
IATA Code: chml
The CHML, or Children’s Meal, is an airline meal code used to request food for young travellers, typically aged between 2 to 12 years.
IATA Code: GFML
The GFML or Gluten-Free meal is designed for those who suffer from celiac disease or can’t tolerate gluten in their diet. Grains such as wheat, rye, oats, bran and barley are eliminated from these special meals as well as flours starches and semolina.
IATA Code: KSML
The KSML or Kosher Meal is a meal where the food is chosen, prepared and served in accordance with Jewish religious guidelines. The meals are packaged in double wrapping which allows the meals to be heated in the aircraft oven that is non-kosher.
IATA Code: VGML
The VGML or vegetarian meal is a meal option for passengers who wish to consume meals free of animal products. Vegans and vegetarians can order this option on their next flight, it is quite a standard meal option that is widely available for you to pre-order.
Bottom Line
United Airlines offers a focused selection of five special meal types, significantly fewer than many international carriers.
All special meals are complimentary but limited to flights with included meal service and require booking through united.com or the mobile app.
FAQs
Does United Airlines have vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options?
United often provides special meals, where a complimentary meal is offered.
You must request these at least 24 hours before your flight (and sometimes more for international flights). Options typically include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions.
Can I bring food on United Airlines?
Yes, you can bring your food on United Airlines flights. However, be aware of TSA guidelines regarding liquids and gels.
Also, consider bringing easily transportable items and avoiding strong-smelling foods that may bother fellow passengers.
Is there a cost for special meals on United Airlines?
Generally, United Airlines does not charge extra for special meal requests. They are provided as a complimentary service to accommodate traveller’s dietary needs
Can I request special meals on domestic flights?
No, special meals are only available on international flights over 2,000 miles, Hawaii routes, and premium transcontinental flights.
