United Is Rolling Out New (and Free) Snacks for Economy

Just in time for spring break, United Airlines is rolling out free snacks for everyone, including economy passengers. Travelers, no matter the seats, will have an array of complimentary snack options starting Mar. 1, 2023. 

Flight munchies are a big deal for the Chicago-based carrier, which supplies more than 12 million snacks a month. The refreshment upgrades represent United's broader commitment to elevating its customer travel experience. So, for those economy passengers who forget to pack plane snacks, you're in luck. 

The first bite to debut is the protein- and fiber-rich Dark Chocolate + Sea Salt Chocolate Crisps by Undercover Snacks.

The chocolate crisps are also environmentally friendly; the crispy quinoa-based cocoa snacks are sustainably made with Certified Rainforest Alliance Chocolate.

Aaron McMillan, United Airlines Managing Director of Hospitality and Planning, expressed his excitement in a press release shared with Food & Wine. He mentioned, "United's new lineup of complimentary economy snacks are hand-selected to give flyers more variety and healthier options when the snack cart rolls-up to their seat."

The airline has plans to release more snack products starting Apr. 1, 2023. Travelers will also have access to Apple and Mango Fruit Bars by That's it and a savory snack mix. The medley is packed with rye bagel chips, garlic bread bites, and pretzel twists.  

The sweet and salty treats are exclusive to the U.S. for now. And the airline is committed to ensuring it is accessible for all dietary preferences. The snack pack offers items that are gluten and allergen free and they are "confident there's something for everyone," shares McMillan.

He continues, "We know the snack cart is often the highlight of a flight, so getting it right is very important to us."