Southwest Airlines will reintroduce alcohol sales on the majority of its flights this month, following a nearly two-year hiatus caused by an increase in disruptive passengers last spring.
The decision exacerbated tensions between the airline and its 16,000-member flight attendants' union, which dubbed the decision to bring back alcohol in flights "unsafe and irresponsible."
Southwest announced on February 16 that it would resume alcohol sales after suspending them in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic.
Southwest announced in January that it was considering reintroducing alcoholic beverages in the spring. According to a representative, the decision was made in response to customer feedback, and logistics and supply chain details aligned to allow for an earlier resumption.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic airlines largely suspended in-flight services to avoid passengers removing their masks while eating or drinking.
On the majority of its flights of 176 miles or more, the beverages would include wine, tequila, vodka, and rum. Southwest also announced plans to expand its non-alcoholic beverage offerings, which will include apple juice, tonic water, Dr. Pepper, Coke Zero, and hot cocoa and tea.
Southwest stated that it will also honor expired free drink coupons from 2020 or 2021. The airline sends free drink coupons to frequent flyers on a periodic basis and includes one with the purchase of its most expensive ticket, Business Select.
"Customers have expressed a desire for additional beverage selections," said Tony Roach, vice president of customer experience and customer relations.
The airline, based in Dallas, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters on the union's statement.
Southwest extended the suspension of alcohol services last year in response to an incident in which a passenger verbally and physically assaulted a flight attendant on a flight from Sacramento to San Diego.
In 2021, U.S. airlines reported a record number of disruptive and occasionally violent incidents, and the United States Federal Aviation Administration pledged a "zero-tolerance" stance toward unruly air passengers.
American Airlines will remain the only major U.S. airline that does not serve alcohol in economy.
Alaska Airlines and American Airlines recently scaled back some recent service expansions in response to pressure from flight attendant unions, who argued that it would increase the amount of time passengers are not required to wear face masks on board, though they can be lowered when drinking or eating.
The mask requirement remains in effect until at least March 18.
