Flying Gluten-Free
Happy Summer!!
Happy end of the school year for many as well!!
It’s that time again when we’re getting ready to pack our bags and go on a much-needed trip to relax, perhaps seek some adventure, and break away from the day-to-day. With that also comes a bit of planning, especially if you have to maintain a gluten-free diet and actually don’t want to starve on your trip.
It’s not always easy to bring your favorite food into the airports or onto planes, but airlines are improving in providing both a safe environment for those with allergies and those with gluten intolerance.
Top US Airlines - Gluten-Free Options
There’s some great information in the article Top US Airlines from The Points Guy and another Best of 2023 Airlines from Forbes – WalletHub that give a broader perspective on what makes a great airline.
When living the Gluten-Free life, I wanted to take a slightly different approach that could complement their reports and see how these airlines rank in the gluten-free flying area.
Below are my top 9 Gluten-Free Airlines and how they rank, based on:
- Gluten-Free Food Availability
- Accessibility of Gluten-Free Options
- Range of Gluten-Free Food
The order goes from the first one, being the best, to the last…needing some improvement, or GF love.
Links provided are direct to menu and ordering options, or articles/posts on their stance on dietary needs.
Top 9 Gluten-Free Airlines
Delta Airlines
I have good luck with Delta when I remember to submit my preferences. You can order gluten-free meals via My Trips online 24 hours in advance.
They also often have gluten-free snacks available. I’ve also had flight attendants so helpful in finding something for me. ♥
United
Like Delta, you can request a gluten-intolerant (GFML) meal online or via the app, under My Trips, 24 hours in advance.
Please note that it’s only offered for flights over 2,000 miles. See the link below for more information on availability.
Alaska
Alaska Airlines is putting energy into expanding meal options for many dietary needs. You can check their options and preorder meals 20 hours to 2 weeks before.
An article reflecting their efforts on expanding meal options: Make Room – More Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Options
American
Availability of gluten-intolerant meals when requested 24 hours in advance, up to 30 days before your flight. Check that your flight offers special meals, using the link below, then you can order your meal either online or via calling reservations.
Hawaiian
Hawaiian Airlines is known for beautiful food options and are happy to cater to those with dietary needs. In order to receive a gluten-free meal, you must call the reservations desk 48 hours before your flight.
JetBlue
With JetBlue, you have the option to order a special meal, 24 hours in advance, via Manage Your Booking. Below are some links to guide you, as well as menu examples.
Allegiant
Although there are no specific Gluten-Free mentioned options, Allegiant does offer a lot of snacks and beverages for purchase that are gluten-free. Just make sure to check those labels to be on the safe side.
Spirit
Similar to Allegiant, there isn’t really any specified gluten-free meal options or snacks, but they do have a large list of food available that are gluten-free. Just double-check for the GF label.
Southwest
Coming in last sadly, Southwest doesn’t really have much available, except for (maybe) peanuts and pretzels, which contain gluten. They do not provide meals for purchase either.
Southwest tweet on why they don’t accommodate dietary restrictions.
Enjoy your gluten-free snacks and meals while you are on to your next destination!
If you have any airline suggestions or want to share any of your traveling tips, please leave them in the comments below.
Happy traveling!!
Great information
Thank you so much!!