Flying On American Airlines? Here’s When You’ll Be Served Alcohol On Board

Those planning to fly on an American Airlines flight will have to wait a little longer before getting to purchase an alcoholic beverage onboard their flight—but the airline will soon be bringing the option back after suspending it due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to CNBC, the airline has announced it will resume the sale of alcoholic beverages on both domestic and short-haul international flights beginning on April 18, the same date that the current federal mask mandate expires. It is the last airline to do so after they all stopped selling alcohol and paused food sales and service at the beginning of the pandemic.

Airlines further delayed plans to bring back alcohol sales after unruly passengers who were opposed to mask mandates or had other issues caused disruptions aboard flights in 2021 and even attacked flight crew members.

The sales will be available on flights traveling more than 250 miles of distance and will be complimentary on any long-haul international flights. It also remains complimentary in first-class seats. On-board food purchases will also be coming back for flights going longer than 1,500 miles and will start with chips and almonds.

However, while travelers may find their ticket prices potentially increasing due to fuel costs and inflation, one thing they won’t see while onboard an American flight is an increased cost for any alcoholic beverage they purchase. A spokeswoman told CNBC that the airline won’t be raising their prices compared with before the pandemic, meaning Aviation Gin, rum, vodka, whiskey and wine will all be available for $9.00. Beer will run $8.00.