United Airlines Adds Illy Ready-to-Drink Cold Brew and Oat Creamer to In-Flight Menu

Starting today, United Airlines will offer canned cold brew and oat creamer on most flights.

Photo byUnited Airlines

Starting today, July 1, United Airlines will offer illy's canned, ready-to-drink cold brew on most flights over 300 miles. This makes United the only major US airline to serve premium cold brew coffee on most of its flights. Crafted with illy’s unique blend of 100% Arabica beans and cold brewed for 12 hours, this cold brew promises a rich and balanced flavor. It will be complimentary in United's premium cabins and available for purchase in United Economy as part of the airline's buy-onboard menu.

Free Cold Brew on Select Redeye Flights

To celebrate this new offering, illy and United are teaming up to give away free premium cold brew to travelers on select redeye flights from San Francisco and Los Angeles to New York/Newark between June 26 and July 3. Passengers on these flights will be the first to sample the new beverage.

Excitement from Illy and United Airlines

Jack Edwards, President of illy North America, said, "We are excited to build upon our successful partnership with United Airlines to offer our premium RTD cold brew to their passengers. This collaboration allows us to share the illy experience with a wider audience and provide a delightful refreshment option for travelers."

Aaron McMillan, Managing Director, Hospitality Programs at United Airlines, said, "As more people than ever take to the skies this summer, we are thrilled to offer fliers a new premium drink, and we're proud to be the only major US airline currently serving cold brew onboard most flights. We know fliers enjoy a pick-me-up during travel, and illy's canned cold brew is the perfect beverage option for coffee lovers looking to stay energized and focused during their trip."

Meeting Rising Demand for Cold Brew

According to the National Coffee Association's Spring/Fall 2023 report, 55% of ready-to-drink coffee consumers drink it multiple times per week. Ready-to-drink coffee has become the number one type of coffee consumed among Millennials and Gen Z, who together make up 43% of the population. The popularity of cold brew has skyrocketed, increasing by 300% since 2016, with a notable 45% increase since January 2023.

This partnership highlights United's commitment to providing premium customer experiences and illy's dedication to delivering high-quality, delicious coffee. Additionally, starting today, July 1, United will also carry oat milk creamer.

For more information about illy and its products, please visit illy.com.