Southwest Airlines Adjusts On-Board Alcoholic Beverage Pricing.
Ahead of the Thanksgiving and holiday travel rush, Southwest Airlines has updated its pricing for on-board alcoholic drinks. The revised prices reflect a moderate adjustment, with liquor now priced at $9 (previously $7), beer at $7 per can (up from $6), and wine at $8, increased from $6.
For flights over 175 miles, Southwest will continue providing complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. However, for shorter flights, only water will be available. This change in service follows the airline’s temporary suspension of its drink menu during the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent reinstatement in 2021 after instances of disruptive passenger behavior.
The adjusted pricing strategy aims to balance the airline’s service offerings while managing passenger conduct during the busy holiday period. As such, passengers might experience a slight increase in costs for alcoholic drinks during their journeys, while still enjoying the comfort of free non-alcoholic options on longer flights.
Restarting On-Board Alcohol Service Following Disruptive Passenger Episodes
In response to several instances of disruptive passenger behavior, Southwest had previously suspended its alcohol service during the pandemic. The airline’s decision to reinstate drink sales was driven by a desire to effectively regulate passenger behavior and maintain a secure and orderly atmosphere during flights.
