Today Alaska Airlines is introducing first class pre-order meals through their mobile app. You’ll be able to order between 24 hours and two weeks prior to departure.

Here’s the initial roll-out schedule for the feature, with the goal of eventually offering it on all flights.

This isn’t the same as ‘book the cook’ offered in premium cabins on some international airlines where you select from an extensive menu and they’ll have it onboard for you. Instead this is about ensuring your first choice of meal from standard offerings. There should be two entrées and a fruit and cheese plate to choose from.

Alaska Airlines First Class

Alaska Airlines Breakfast

Here’s how to use the feature:

First, make sure you have the latest version of the Alaska Airlines mobile app installed on your smartphone. First class meal options can be reserved anywhere from 24 hours to two weeks prior to your flight.

Select the “Food reservation” icon. Then you will be directed to select from the food items available on your particular flight.

Credit: Alaska Airlines

American Airlines is alone among major domestic airlines in offering this today, and except for last minute upgrades or flight changes this solves the problem of getting only “what’s left” when asked for your meal choice. It doesn’t mean getting better food.

However I’ve been surprised that other carriers haven’t matched this before since it’s been around in the market for five years so far.

Alaska Airlines Boeing 737