United Airlines is testing a new service at Newark Liberty International Airport that allows passengers to order food, beverages and travel essentials through the airline’s app and pick them up near their departure gate.

The pilot is available on select flights departing from or connecting through up to nine designated gates in Terminal C. Eligible travelers receive a push notification or email before departure, allowing them to place an order for items such as sandwiches, salads, drinks, snacks and children’s meals, as well as travel pillows, charging cords and select over-the-counter medications.

Orders are prepared and delivered to designated pickup shelves near the gates, where passengers can collect them to eat before boarding or bring onboard.

United is working with airport hospitality company OTG to prepare and deliver meals from participating Newark restaurants, including Nonna’s Kitchen and Victory Grill. The test covers gates C125 through C138, which serve domestic and international flights.

“We focus on where the travel experience can be simpler for customers and innovating to remove friction along the way,” said David Kinzelman, United’s chief customer officer. “The time right before boarding is one of those moments when customers want quick, easy access to food without added complexity.”

United plans to expand the pilot to Houston later this year, adding more restaurant options and the possibility of delivery directly to the gate. The airline will collect customer feedback to evaluate demand and determine whether to introduce the service at additional airports.

If the program expands, United also plans to integrate ordering into its seatback inflight entertainment screens.