Travelers are toasting United Airlines' latest change to in-flight service.
The Chicago-based carrier has begun rolling out new paper cups for its in-flight beverages that will eliminate about 1,260 metric tons of plastic each year, according to aviation blog Live and Let’s Fly.
The recyclable paper cups come with a “universal” design that can accommodate both hot and cold drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages, and replace the carrier’s iconic blue plastic cups.
Although a signature part of United’s drink service, the old blue cups were single-use plastic and became at odds with the airline’s growing sustainability initiatives.
Last year, United hired a team to test cup alternatives, and they landed on a new blue paper cup that will eliminate 250 million plastic cups annually “without compromising safety or the customer experience,” according to the airline.
The new cups were slated to debut across United’s domestic and international network in 2026, and that process has now begun, according to Live and Let’s Fly.
The fresh cups fit into United’s existing recycling initiatives, which include recycling old uniforms and diverting food waste from landfills.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
