Special Meals
United Airlines offers a variety of special meals to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
These meals must be requested at least 24 hours before departure and can be added during booking or through the “Manage Your Booking” feature on their website.
IATA Code: AVML
The AVML Asian Vegetarian Meal is a vegetarian meal that normally includes spices and flavours from India. It will usually contain vegetables, fresh fruit, dried fruits, legumes, dairy products, tofu, cereal, grains and vegetarian gelatine.
IATA Code: chml
The CHML, or Children’s Meal, is an airline meal code used to request food for young travelers, 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.
Special meals are available on select flights, including:
- Premium transcontinental flights (premium cabins)
- Flights between Hawaii and mainland U.S. (main cabin)
- Select international routes (all cabins)
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