There’s good news for those who like a drink while flying. This week, Air Canada has announced that economy passengers on all flights, not just long-haul routes, will be served complimentary beer, wine and snacks starting this autumn. That makes the Montreal-based carrier the only North American legacy airline to pour alcohol for free in economy cabins across its entire network. US competitors such as American, Delta and United only serve drinks on flights beyond a certain mileage, while low-cost carriers such as Spirit, Frontier and JetBlue charge for alcoholic beverages.

Scott O’Leary, Air Canada’s vice president of loyalty and product, said that the decision reflects how much in-flight conveniences matter to customers. “Food and beverage tend to have a disproportionate impact on customer satisfaction,” he told Reuters, adding that waiving alcohol charges rather than lowering baggage fees has more value for passengers – and perhaps the airline as well. The new menu also showcases Canadian favourites onboard the country’s flag carrier. Morning flights include complimentary oat bars from Canadian brand MadeGood, while departures from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport will offer ginger wellness shots from local producer Greenhouse. (Euronews)