Traveling is exciting, but when you have dietary needs, airplane food can feel like a challenge. Thankfully, United Airlines offers a range of special meals designed to accommodate health conditions, religious requirements, and lifestyle choices.
This guide explains United’s special meal options in plain, easy-to-follow terms—perfect for seniors planning trips for themselves or family. And if you ever feel unsure, you can confirm or request your special meal by calling 877-297-0699 before your flight.
United provides customized meals on many long-haul and international flights. These options must be requested at least 24 hours in advance—they aren’t automatically included.
Types of meals include:
Health-related meals
Religious and cultural meals
Vegetarian and lifestyle meals
Child or bland meals
👉 Quick tip: You can request a meal through United’s website, mobile app, or by calling 877-297-0699.
Many seniors benefit from meals designed around health needs. United offers:
Low-sodium meals – great for travelers managing heart or blood pressure issues.
Diabetic meals – balanced for steady blood sugar.
Low-fat/low-calorie meals – lighter options for digestion.
Gluten-free meals – safe for those with celiac disease or sensitivities.
👴 Real-world example: A 72-year-old traveler with hypertension said the low-sodium meal on her transatlantic flight made her feel more comfortable and confident.
📊 Data note: According to AARP, nearly half of seniors have at least one chronic health condition—making meal planning a key part of stress-free travel.
United recognizes the importance of faith-based meals. Options include:
Kosher meals – prepared under rabbinical supervision.
Halal meals – following Islamic dietary guidelines.
Hindu meals – typically vegetarian with no beef.
Vegetarian Jain meals – no root vegetables, in line with Jain customs.
These meals ensure passengers can travel comfortably without compromising religious practices.
Not all special meals are medical or religious—many are simply lifestyle choices. United offers:
Vegetarian (lacto-ovo, Asian vegetarian, or vegan) options.
Child meals – smaller portions with familiar foods.
Bland meals – designed for passengers with sensitive digestion.
👵 Example: A grandmother traveling with her vegan granddaughter appreciated that United had a fully vegan option available on their international flight.
The process is simple if you plan ahead:
Book your flight online or by phone.
Call 877-297-0699 or log in to “Manage Booking” to select your special meal.
Make sure the request is made at least 24 hours before departure.
Reconfirm at check-in or with a gate agent.
👉 Visualize it as: Book → Request → Confirm → Fly.
Special meals are helpful, but here are extra tips for a smoother journey:
Carry small snacks (nuts, crackers, or fruit) just in case.
Drink water frequently—cabin air is dehydrating.
Keep medications handy in your carry-on and take them with meals.
Choose aisle seating for easier movement after eating.
Check with your doctor before long trips if you have multiple health needs.
United’s special meal options make it easier for seniors and families to travel comfortably, no matter their dietary needs. From low-sodium to kosher, vegan to child-friendly, the airline offers choices that support both health and lifestyle.
With a little preparation—and a quick call to 877-297-0699—you can fly confidently, knowing your meal needs are taken care of.