TUI Airways is to scrap free alcoholic drinks for economy passengers on long-haul flights from 1 November.
Currently, economy passengers get three free alcoholic drinks throughout the flight. Under the new policy, passengers in economy will be offered one complimentary alcoholic drink with their main meal but no others. Additional alcoholic drinks can be purchased.
The changes will not affect customers travelling in Premium Economy, where complimentary alcoholic drinks will continue to be available.
TUI said customers who have already booked economy seats for travel from 1 November will receive a refund of £12.50 per person, each way, to make up for the changes.
In response to a post on Facebook, a member of TUI’s social media team said: “This change helps us focus on the things that matter most, like keeping fares competitive, maintaining great value overall, and giving customers more flexibility in how they spend onboard.
“Soft drinks will remain free, customers will still get complimentary beer or wine with their main meal, and there’ll be a wider range of alcoholic drinks available to buy, so people can choose exactly what they want during their flight.”
The announcement has prompted criticism from some customers, particularly among those who booked before the policy change was introduced.
One customer took to social media to say: “No frills flights is not what I signed up for,” and another said: “That wasn’t the contract we signed up to.”
Another said: “Those of us that have paid in full paid for a FULL drinks service. Over £6,000 including flights only to be treated like second-class passengers because we are in economy. We didn’t buy premium because there were no seats left.”
One TUI customer said: “If we purchased a holiday with all-inclusive alcohol on flights, that should be honoured. I accept that new bookings could have different rules.”
Another added: “This [free drinks] would have been factored into the price we paid when we booked.”
However, some customers applauded the move, particularly in light of growing concerns over passengers consuming too much alcohol and becoming disruptive.
One social media user wrote: “I can’t believe this is an issue. Take a look at the media and see those that are getting hammered on flights, causing delays.”
A TUI spokesperson said: “From 1 November 2026, we are making some changes to the food and drink service included for customers travelling in economy on our long-haul flights.
“Customers will continue to receive complimentary soft drinks throughout their flight and a complimentary beer or wine served with their main meal.
“Additional alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase onboard. Adults with existing bookings affected by the change will receive a £12.50 refund per flight, each way.”
