Do you get free alcohol with Economy Plus?

Decoding the Drink Situation in Economy Plus: Is Free Alcohol Included?

Upgrading to Economy Plus often promises extra legroom and perhaps a slightly more comfortable flying experience. But does that extended legroom also come with complimentary cocktails? The short answer is: not necessarily. Unlike premium cabins like Business or First Class, free alcohol is not a standard perk automatically included with Economy Plus tickets.

The reality of what you get with Economy Plus in terms of beverages is highly variable and depends almost entirely on the airline operating your flight. Think of it less as a universal upgrade package and more as a slightly enhanced version of standard Economy, with some airlines being more generous than others.

Some airlines, particularly on international flights or specific long-haul routes, might offer complimentary beer or wine to Economy Plus passengers. This is often considered a small gesture of goodwill for those who have paid extra for the improved seating. You might find this perk more frequently on international legs where the expectation of some level of service is higher.

However, dont assume this is the norm. Many airlines treat Economy Plus essentially the same as regular Economy when it comes to beverage service. Youll likely be offered the same complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, but alcoholic drinks will typically be available for purchase only.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion often stems from the association of Plus with an enhanced experience. Passengers naturally expect some extra benefits for their investment. However, airlines primarily market Economy Plus based on the increased legroom and sometimes priority boarding. The beverage policy often remains secondary and less emphasized in their advertising.

The Key Takeaway: Research is Essential

Instead of relying on assumptions or general expectations, the best course of action is to directly contact the airline youre flying with. Visit their website and look for specific details regarding their Economy Plus offerings. You can also contact their customer service department via phone or online chat and inquire directly about their beverage policy for your particular flight route.

Questions to Ask:

• Does Economy Plus on [Flight Number] from [Departure City] to [Arrival City] include complimentary alcoholic beverages?
• What is the standard beverage service offered to Economy Plus passengers on international flights?

By doing your due diligence, youll avoid any disappointment on board and can accurately budget for your in-flight expenses. If free alcohol is a deciding factor for you, knowing the airlines policy beforehand will allow you to make an informed decision about whether upgrading to Economy Plus is truly worth the cost.

Ultimately, while the promise of extra legroom is enticing, dont expect a free bar tab to automatically come with it. Treat Economy Plus as primarily a seating upgrade and consider any complimentary alcoholic beverages as a pleasant surprise, not a guaranteed entitlement. Be prepared to pay for your drinks if needed, or choose an airline known for offering this perk within their Economy Plus service. Knowing before you go will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable flight experience.