Originally Posted by PhxFlyGuy
they were the 16.9oz bottles, and they were NOT collected prior to takeoff. Not a complaint, but HP always claimed that is was federal regulation that they pick up everything they serve prior to the cabin door being closed.
I am not a flight attendant, so I can't speak with certainty, but I believe America West misinterprets the federal regulation. On Continental, one can often keep their predeparture beverage until just before takeoff (yes, after the door is closed and even after the aircraft has pushed back).