This is a bit of a random question, but I've had a few delays throughout the course of the year. You know the ones -they board the flight knowing full well that there is going to be a delay, then tell you (it's the airline industry's herding mentality because it makes it easier for them to do their job -and before you tell me, I know it's really so the aircraft can be fully ready quickly in case an earlier slot time becomes available.) Sometimes, the crew have served water only; other times, we've had the pleasure of water or juice; and on two occasions, a full bar service, including alcoholic beverages, has been offered. When a pax asked for a coke on the 'water only' flights, crew explained that the bars were sealed and due to HMRC regulations could not be opened until after departure.

So what is the actual rule? I know that there will be times when crew are instructed to refrain from commencing any service in case the aircraft can push sooner than expected. On the flights where we were served alcohol, did the airline have to pay the duty?