United introduces PayPal QR codes as in-flight payment option

United and PayPal have introduced a new way to make touch-free in-flight purchases, even in areas without Wi-Fi.

From November, United passengers on select flights can show a flight attendant the PayPal QR Code in the PayPal app and use it to buy snacks, drinks and other in-flight purchases while onboard.

United is the first airline to offer PayPal QR Codes, and this partnership is part of United’s easy-to-use, suite of contactless payment tools.

PayPal QR Codes can be used on select flights departing from Chicago O’ Hare International Airport in November and before the end of the year, will extend to all flights across the entire network where contactless payment is available.

“Our contactless payment offering is built on simplicity and choice and it’s another way we’re improving the overall experience of flying United,” said Toby Enqvist, Chief Customer Officer for United. “PayPal is a terrific partner and this technology gives our customers another easy way to make purchases, even when they’re not online. We expect to introduce even more new and innovative options for our customers in the future through our collaboration with PayPal.”

“We’re excited to be partnering with United to introduce our new offline QR code functionality, adding more ways for customers to check out with PayPal in more places, especially in offline or low connectivity areas,” said Frank Keller, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Segment Solutions and Digital Commerce at PayPal. “Bringing PayPal QR Codes in-flight reinforces our commitment to offering customers choice and provides a new level of touch-free convenience for consumers when making in-flight purchases, within the PayPal app they know and trust.”