The Goose is taking flight.
Beginning July 1, Goose Island Brewing’s 312 Urban Wheat Ale will be available on United Airlines’ flights worldwide and at the airline’s United Clubs in the continental U.S., the two companies jointly announced today.
Rumors of the deal surfaced earlier this week when the Chicago Business Journal reported that a partnership was brewing.
Named for one of the primary area codes for Chicago — where both companies are headquartered — 312 will be complimentary for premium-cabin customers, and cost $7.99 for passengers in United’s economy seats. In United Clubs, the beer will be priced at $3.
Lynda Coffman, vice president of food services with United, said the partnership should accommodate the growing demand among flight passengers for in-flight craft beer options.
“Our customers have told us they want craft beer on board,” she said in a statement. “[W]ith the addition of 312 Urban Wheat Ale, we are able to satisfy their tastes with an excellent product.”
This isn’t the first partnership between the two companies. Goose Island, which was acquired by Anheuser-Busch InBev in 2011, has dining establishments inside of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.
“We are proud to have United Airlines choose Goose Island as a craft beer partner,” said Andy Goeler, Goose Island CEO, in the statement. “Both companies are not only from Chicago but are also established icons in the Windy City, just two of the many reasons this relationship is sure to be a success.”