US Airways brings back free drinks

US Airways has confirmed that it will reinstate its free beverage programme on all of its flights from March 1st.

Customers on all US Airways and US Airways Express economy services will be offered free soda, fruit juices, tea, water and coffee during their flight.

Beer, wine and cocktails will continue to be priced at $7 (£4.80).

US Airways initially introduced its beverage purchase programme as part of the 'a la carte' business model, which allows customers to pay for what they want to use.

The programme is still expected to generate between $400 and $500 million this year, despite the fact that soft drinks are now free.

Doug Parker, chairman and chief executive of the airline, said: "We are firmly committed to the a la carte model and believe it's the right one for our business.

"It is also a work in progress – US Airways was the only large network carrier to charge for drinks and that put us at a disadvantage."

With hubs in Charlotte, Phoenix, Philadelphia and Las Vegas, US Airways operates a worldwide network that includes transatlantic flights from Heathrow Airport, Birmingham Airport and Manchester Airport.

Posted by Andrew, 23 February 2009 15:47

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