Southwest Airlines raises drink prices on flights

Southwest Airlines has made the decision to hike up the prices of all of its alcoholic drinks on its flights.

The budget US airline carrier, known for its cost-effectiveness when flying, has raised its prices by US$2 per drink, including beer, wine, and spirits.

Beer and wine previously cost just US$6 per glass, while spirits are now sold for only US$7 each.

With the changes, Miller Lite, Lagunitas IPA, and Kona Brewing Big Wave Golden Ale (on flights to Hawaii only) will cost around US$7; while wine options, including Cruset Brut Sparkling Wine, Carmenet Cabernet Sauvignon, Mossel Bay Chenin Blanc Chardonnay, and Stone Cellars California Rosé will set people back US$8.

South West Airlines spokesperson Tiffany Valdez told reporters: “Southwest last adjusted pricing for onboard beverages in 2018 and recently reviewed our position as we work to keep fares low while offering our customers unmatched flexibility.”

Valdez added: “Upon review, we made the decision to implement a modest change to the pricing of our alcoholic beverages.”

Soft drinks, including still and sparking bottled water as well as juices, coffee and tea, will all remain complimentary.

Last year, Southwest Airlines revealed its initial plans to sell alcoholic drinks on its planes, despite it being labelled as an “unsafe” and “irresponsible” decision.

After almost years of dry flights, the Texas-based carrier, had extended its alcohol ban due to a surge in in-flight disruptions by passengers, before contraversially resuming the sale of alcohol.