If you're flying in United Economy on an international flight that is 800 miles or more, you'll receive an entrée, a salad and salad dressing, a snack, and (on select flights) ice cream and a hot pre-arrival meal. You may also receive mid-flight and pre-arrival items on select flights.

Yes, United Airlines provides complimentary meal service on the vast majority of its long-haul international flights in 2026. For "transoceanic" routes (crossing the Atlantic or Pacific), passengers in Economy typically receive a multi-course hot meal shortly after takeoff, which includes a choice of entree, a salad or side, and a dessert. Mid-flight snacks and a "pre-arrival" meal (usually breakfast or a light sandwich) are also provided. Complimentary beer and wine are included in Economy on these long-haul routes. In United Premium Plus, the meals are upgraded with better chinaware and expanded menu options. For those in United Polaris (Business Class), the service is a fine-dining experience with multi-course menus designed by renowned chefs, featuring appetizers, main courses, and an ice cream sundae cart. It is important to note that "short-haul" international flights (such as those to Mexico, Canada, or parts of the Caribbean) are treated like domestic flights, where meals are usually available for purchase rather than being complimentary.