Does American Airlines Serve Alcohol? (Beer, Wine, Spirits + More)

On a long flight, you want to relax and unwind. What better way to do that than sharing a cold beer with some friends?

Does American Airlines serve alcohol? If you want to know more, keep reading — I reveal the answer to this and much more!

Does American Airlines Serve Alcohol In 2024?

American Airlines serves alcohol on many flights as of 2024. During the early stages of the pandemic, the sale and service of alcohol were banned. With the return of alcohol on flights in 2022, customers can expect free alcoholic beverages in First and Business classes. Economy class passengers must pay if they want alcohol.

Are you curious about the types of alcohol American Airlines serves? Maybe you’re interested in which flights serve alcohol or how much the drinks cost. Keep reading to find out!

Does American Airlines Serve Alcohol?

At the start of the pandemic, American Airlines stopped selling and serving alcohol on its flights. As of April 18th, 2022, American Airlines continues to sell alcoholic products on board.

Initially, the intention behind this date was to be congruent with the federal mask mandate (during transport) ending. However, the mask mandate was extended to May 3rd, 2022.

Despite this, American Airlines continued to bring alcohol back on April 18th, 2022.

Why Does American Airlines Not Serve Alcohol?

American Airlines stopped selling alcohol (and certain onboard food services) during the start of the pandemic.

That said, American Airlines intended to bring back alcohol sales in-flight in mid-2021.

Unfortunately, due to flight attendants being assaulted and the passengers’ erratic behavior, American Airlines extended its restriction on alcohol to April 18th, 2022.

Is Alcohol Free On American Airlines In First Class?

Alcoholic drinks are free to First and Business Class passengers. In addition, at the start of the flight, First Class passengers are given a complimentary glass of champagne.

All through the pandemic, First Class passengers were served free alcohol — so there haven’t been any changes in that regard.

If you are flying by way of Economy Class, alcohol is available for purchase, and a standard serving of beer will cost you $8, wine is $9, and spirits go for $9.

Did American Airlines Serve Alcohol During COVID?

Did American Airlines Serve Alcohol During COVID?

American Airlines banned the selling and serving of alcohol early in the pandemic.

During the pandemic, customers were itching to have a drink in the sky, and American Airlines was also eager to resume this service in 2021.

However, due to an unfortunate amount of violent altercations between staff and passengers, American Airlines decided to extend its ban on alcohol in-flight.

In 2022, American Airlines resumed serving alcohol in the main cabin. Also, American Airlines is the last major US airline to resume serving alcohol in-flight.

Does American Airlines Serve Alcohol On International Flights?

On international flights longer than 250 miles, alcohol is available for purchase. With that, in First Class, alcoholic beverages are complimentary.

Additionally, prices remain the same for now; beer is $8, wine is $9, and spirits are $9.

Does American Airlines Sell Alcohol In Main Cabin Extra?

American Airlines has an extended-legroom section called “Main Cabin Extra.” As one of its perks, customers in Main Cabin Extra will receive alcohol for free.

That said, this is consistent with American Airlines’ pre-pandemic procedure regarding Main Cabin Extra alcohol service.

Is American Airlines Serving Alcohol In Premium Economy?

All alcohol served in Premium Economy is complimentary, including First Class and Premium Class.

Further, examples of free alcoholic beverages served in Premium Economy include beer, spirits, mixers, and wine.

Does American Airlines Serve Alcohol In Business Class?

For shorter flights (under 900 miles) and longer flights (between 900 and 2,200 miles) — American Airlines serves alcohol for free in Business Class.

Does American Airlines Serve Free Alcohol In First Class?

In First Class, customers can enjoy free alcoholic beverages.

To know more, you can also read our posts on whether or not American Airlines serves food, does American Airlines have first class, and does American Airlines have WiFi.

Conclusion

At the start of the pandemic, the sale and service of alcohol were banned on American Airlines.

In 2022, alcoholic beverages were reintroduced as an in-flight purchase option for Economy Class passengers. Also, alcohol is available on International flights of 250 miles or more.

Moreover, Business Class and First Class passengers enjoy free alcoholic beverages on all flights — and even a complimentary glass of champagne.

Lastly, customers flying on American Airlines can expect to lean back, enjoy their legroom, and have a tasteful glass of wine!

Photo of author

Florence Howard

Florence Howard has been freelance writing for over a decade, and has a vocational background in retail, tech, and marketing. Outside of work, she enjoys listening to rock and metal, and playing with her dog and cat.

Leave a Comment