Matching a recent move by some competitors, Delta Air Lines announced last month that it will raise the prices of alcoholic beverages served in-flight.
According to reports in The San Francisco Chronicle, Delta’s price adjustments increase domestic beer from $7 to $8, craft and imported beers from $8 to $9, and wine and cocktails from $8 to $9. These new fares align Delta with American Airlines, which implemented similar price increases in October. Both carriers will continue to offer complimentary alcoholic beverages to premium-cabin passengers, including Main Cabin Extra on American and Comfort on Delta.
Other U.S. carriers show a range of pricing strategies. Southwest Airlines keeps its prices relatively low, charging about $6 for domestic beer, $7 for premium beers and wine, and $8 for cocktails.
Alaska Airlines typically prices most drinks around $7.50, with some premium wines available for about $8.50 a glass. JetBlue’s beverage menu generally starts at $7, though certain higher-end wines can cost up to $9.
United Airlines currently posts some of the highest beverage prices among U.S. carriers. Select specialty cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or a Trader Vic’s Mai Tai on certain routes, are priced at $9.99.
These adjustments reflect a broader trend in the industry as airlines fine-tune ancillary revenue streams while continuing to maintain complimentary drink offerings for higher-tier passengers. Passengers traveling in main cabin or lower fare classes may notice the increases on future flights, while travelers in premium seats will still receive complimentary service.