Booze Prices On American Airlines Flights Going Up

TheTravel

By Gene Kosowan

Published Oct 2, 2018

American Airlines has upped the ante once again. As of October 1st, all prices for beer, wine and spirits have been increased by a dollar.

As if prices for in-flight alcoholic beverages weren't high enough, American Airlines has upped the ante once again. Since October 1st, all prices for beer, wine and spirits have increased by a dollar.

While there hasn't been any announcement over other airlines following suit, the American announcement comes on the heels of a March decision by Southwest to jack up prices of their alcohol amenities. Currently, it costs $6 for beer and wine and $7 for liquor. American's price list has beer listed at $8, with liquor and wine going for $9.

The price increase is small comfort for those who have to endure hours in the cabin on American's longer domestic flights, although a spokesperson for the airline chimed in by saying that alcohol options have increased substantially. And all prices for beer, for example, will remain the same regardless of brand.

What that means is that you can still grab a Coors for the same price as some of the more exotic lagers, like craft beers and even imported beverages, ranging from Fat Tire Belgian White to Samuel Adams Octoberfest. If you're a wine connoisseur, prices remain the same whether you go for a La Montagne Noire Sauvignon Blanc or a Le Papillons Grenache Rose or even a glass of the sparkling stuff like Casa Gheller Brut Prosecco. And for liquor aficionados, the airline won't discriminate between the purchase cost of Disaronno Amaretto or a Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

But there is good news for teetotalers and those traveling with family on American. Non-alcoholic beverages will still be free. Meanwhile, those dreading international flights and having to pay for something to help wind down are also fortunate. Anyone heading to Europe, Asia, Hawaii or various destinations in Latin America will be able to get free beer and wine. Liquor is only available for free for anyone heading to Auckland, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore.

Those with seats in business and first class on American Airlines still get free drinks. But folks who normally opt for economy can do the math if they want to benefit from free beverages. By upgrading for as little as $20 for a main cabin extra seat, drinks are free. In that case, it would take at least three free drinks to get a return on such an investment.