Team of chefs and master sommelier


Chefs Gerry McLoughlin and Gerry Gulli in the foreground of a United aircraft

United's executive chefs Gerry McLoughlin and Gerry Gulli are the orchestrators of distinctive inflight dining at 35,000 feet and work closely with corporate chefs to continually evaluate evolving food trends in an effort to bring the best inflight dining experiences to United customers. This includes the chefs occasionally hopping on a United flight and interacting with customers and crew members to get their feedback.

Working to complement the gourmet offerings developed by the team of chefs is Doug Frost, United's Master Sommelier. Frost, an expert wine aficionado who works with our beverage committee in the selection and pairing of wines, is one of the world's three Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine.

United corporate chefs

Photo of Chef Gerry McLoughlin

Gerry McLoughlin is the Senior Manager of Food and Beverage Design and Executive Chef within United's culinary team. After completing his culinary degree and a five year apprenticeship at The Shelbourne, a historic hotel in Dublin, Ireland, Chef McLoughlin worked at various establishments including The Drake hotel and The Metropolitan C​lub in Chicago, and is a member of the American Culinary Federation. With more than 30 years of culinary management experience, Chef McLoughlin oversees worldwide menu development.

Photo of Chef Gerry Gulli

Gerry Gulli is an Executive Chef for United who combines his love of food with his interest in aviation. He has been widely recognized for his creativity in designing menus with broad international and regional appeal during his more than 25 years of culinary experience. After receiving his culinary degree, Chef Gulli apprenticed at Chicago's Ritz Carlton, Drake, and Palmer House hotels.

Master Sommelier and Master of Wine

Photo of Sommelier Doug Frost

Doug Frost is one of four people in the world who have passed both the Master Sommelier and Master of Wine exams. According to USA Today, "Frost likely knows as much as anyone in the world about how to make, market, serve and identify wines." Doug is actively involved with United's beverage committee in reviewing, tasting and selecting wines served on all flights.