United Tests Newark Airport Gate Food Delivery Via App

United Airlines is testing a new mobile app feature that allows passengers to order food and other items for delivery to their gate at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The service, a collaboration with airport vendor On the Go (OTG), aims to provide convenience for travelers short on time before boarding.

Initially, the option is only available for select United flights departing from gates C125 through C138 in Terminal C. Passengers booked on these flights will receive a push notification through the United app about the service. OTG prepares and packages the orders, delivering them to a designated pickup spot at the departure gate.

Participating Restaurants and Items

Two Terminal C restaurants are participating in the initial test: Nonna's Kitchen and Victory Grille. According to the source, Nonna's Kitchen has a Yelp score of 2.4 stars, while Victory Grille's score is 1.9 stars. The service also allows passengers to order over-the-counter medicine or charging cords. United is not charging an additional fee for the delivery, though standard airport retail markups apply.

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."

Expansion Plans and Precedents

The pilot program is set to expand later this year to United's hub at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. United will gather customer feedback during the trials at both Newark and Houston to decide on further expansion to other concourses or airports. If successful, the airline envisions letting passengers order via seatback screens for pickup upon arrival.

A similar program called "At Your Gate" previously operated at Denver International Airport but has since ended. The source notes United operates over 550 daily flights from Denver, suggesting it could be a candidate for future expansion.

Other Recent United Announcements

Separately, United has 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, following pauses due to military conflicts in those regions.

Another new app feature will let customers select up to three standby flights scheduled earlier than their booked flight, potentially useful during weather disruptions. United also continues to equip its fleet with Starlink WiFi, with 523 of its 1,787 aircraft upgraded as of September 2.