Most of the time passengers seem quite happy with a glass of fizz, water or juice. On a recent SFO-LHR in F, the steward asked the lady in front what she would like to drink before take-off. She said a glass of wine. When told she couldn't have it due to customs regulations, she got quite sniffy and then didn't want anything. I guess the crew should say "may I offer you a glass of champagne, water or orange juice..."

The fact that a full bar is on offer in the lounges, I do find the whole "Duty" concept on board a bit strange - surely airlines could club together a negotiate something with HMCR on this so passengers are offered what they like. But in many cases it looks like pax are getting cocktails or alternatives discreetly.

Nice touch on EOS the other day flying to JFK - pre-departure champagne cocktail of the day. Good to have a change every once in a while!