United Airlines Tests Gate Food Delivery Via App At Newark

United Airlines is testing a new feature in its mobile app that lets passengers order food and have it delivered to their departure gate at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The service, a partnership with airport vendor On the Go (OTG), aims to provide convenience for travelers who are short on time before boarding.

Air travel can disrupt normal eating schedules, creating a need for quick access to food. The new option is designed to offer freshly prepared meals as an alternative to onboard purchases. David Kinzelman, United's Chief Customer Officer, said, "The time right before boarding is one of those moments when customers want quick, easy access to food without added complexity."

Initial Service Details

The pilot service is initially available only for select United flights departing from gates C125 through C138 at EWR's Terminal C. These gates serve both domestic and international flights. Passengers booked on eligible flights will receive a push notification in the United app about the ordering option.

OTG prepares and packages the orders, delivering them to a designated pick-up spot at the gate. United is not charging an additional fee for the delivery service, though standard airport retail prices apply. The service also allows passengers to order forgotten essentials like over-the-counter medicine or charging cables.

Participating Restaurants

Two Terminal C restaurants are participating in the initial rollout: Nonna's Kitchen and Victory Grille. According to the source, their Yelp scores are relatively low.

Other eateries may be added later. Terminal C houses dozens of other dining options not currently part of the program.

Expansion Plans and Related Updates

The program is scheduled to expand to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston later this year. United will gather customer feedback during the pilot phase to decide on further expansion to other concourses or airports. If successful, the airline plans to integrate ordering into seatback inflight entertainment screens for arrival delivery.

Separately, United recently announced 14 new routes from Newark, many slated to use the new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The airline will resume service to Tel Aviv on September 8 and to Dubai on November 8 after pauses due to regional conflicts.

The airline also added a new app feature allowing customers to select up to three standby flights earlier than their booked one, which could be useful during weather disruptions. Also, United continues to equip its fleet with Starlink WiFi, with a tracking website showing 523 of its 1,787 aircraft had received the upgrade as of September 2.