I received a press release the other day, and it caught me by surprise. In a world where it seems just about every bit of news issued by an airline involves increased fees for decreased service, American Airlines has decided to offer complimentary beer and wine — to its economy-class passengers.
The move, the airline says, is a nod to its “loyal customers” and allows the carrier to better align its product offerings with other members of oneworld alliance.
Effective Feb. 1, complimentary beer and wine will be available to economy-class passengers traveling on international flights between the United States and Europe, Asia and some Southern American countries.
It’s a small gesture — not nearly enough to offset checked baggage and other “innovative” fees introduced by American and other carriers in recent years — but sipping a complimentary glass of wine while tucked into the limited space of an economy-class seat might just take a little bit of the sting out of today’s main-cabin travel experience.
— Lisa Matte, editor in chief
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Sep 28, 2026The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort Unveils Partnership with Farina est. 1709
Johann Maria Farina described his Original Eau de Cologne, in 1709, as a memory of an “Italian spring morning after the rain,” with the formula distilling freshness, lightness and emotion into scent. More than 300 years later, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils a new partnership with that brand, Farina est. 1709. Marking the resort’s 10th anniversary, the Cologne-based maison will bring its fragrance heritage to the island Nov. 14–20 for an immersive experience where scent, gastronomy and hospitality intertwine.
Sponsored Content
The World Awaits with Turkish Airlines’ Global Access
Turkish Airlines enjoys the unique position as the airline flying to more countries than any other airline. Its unrivaled global reach is only the beginning of the experience that awaits passengers with Turkish Airlines.
Cyprus
Sep 28, 20267 Reasons to Put Cyprus on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Cyprus with us.
Daily
Sep 28, 2026Park Hyatt Sets its Sights on Portugal with Projected Debut in Comporta
Hyatt Hotels and Portuguese real estate developer Coporgest team to bring Park Hyatt Comporta and Park Hyatt Comporta Residences to Portugal. The project will introduce the brand to Comporta, a coastal destination in Alentejo region known for its relaxed beach lifestyle, natural surroundings and local character.
Sponsored Content
IHG Business Edge: A Smarter Way for Small- and Mid-Sized Businesses to Travel
IHG Business Edge is a complimentary travel program designed to help small- and mid-sized businesses manage travel more efficiently while saving on hotel stays. Members enjoy access to guaranteed discounts, loyalty benefits, and partner offers across IHG Hotels & Resorts’ global portfolio of 7,000-plus hotels in more than 100 countries.
Daily
Sep 28, 2026Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Opens in North Dakota
Opened July 4, 2026, on the 250th anniversary of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opened. The building was designed by Oslo-based Snøhetta as the most regenerative cultural building in the Americas and one of the most ambitious projects pursuing the full Living Building certification, the world’s most rigorous environmental standard.
Daily
Sep 24, 2026Bathhouse to Open First Philadelphia Location at The Bellevue
New York City-based social wellness brand Bathhouse, beloved for its modern take on sauna culture, celebrated its first expansion beyond the Big Apple with its debut in Center City Philadelphia at The Bellevue.
Sponsored Content
Global Traveler Hosted Trip on the Transcend Connect
JOIN GLOBAL TRAVELER ON ITS NEXT TRIP!
Daily
Sep 23, 20264 Ways to Spend a Weekend in Cleveland, Ohio
Whether an adventure seeker, culturally curious or a lover of all things music, Cleveland, Ohio, is the perfect weekend getaway for all types of personalities and travel styles.
ShareThis