Does AC no longer offer pre-departure drinks in international business class?
 

Recently flew YYZ-FRA and prior to take off, nobody was offered a pre-departure drink; there was just the usual bottle of water at each seat. Flight attendants seemed mostly busy with talking to each other and handing out newspapers.

It has happened to me 3 times this year but not consistently. Usually coincides with lesser experienced crews.

Had pre departure beverages on YYZ-FRA and vis versa recently. I doubt the policy has changed since Monday.

I’ve done about 20 YYZ-FRA this year (Su/Mo departure and Fr/Sa return) most recently last week and was always offered a pre departure drink. I’m surprised with your experience as service on this route has been very consistent

Is possible that catering was delayed, otherwise no excuse. Did the service director take food orders before take off? If they had I would have asked why. Worth sending a note to AC as this is part of their signature service standard and they should know when a crew isn’t conforming to it.

They still offer it in PY, let alone J.

Sounds like something was screwed up somewhere.

Got one on a tcon yesterday...

It's simply SOP not being followed, or they didn't cater enough or any for PDB perhaps.

Out of 60+ signature flights this year (granted, all NA, but that's not the point), I can remember only a handful of times they did not provide PDB.

If you really want your PDB, just politely ask an FA or the SD.

Flew from VIE-YYZ yesterday and was offered the usual OJ/water in PY

I find that if I don't board with zone 1, they've already done it, and I almost always have to ask.

For some airlines PDB is offered only after door is closed, but on AC it is offered throughout the boarding process.

Agreed. I also board quite late and PDB is usually already served.

The "top" crews will take notice of the late stragglers and come dote on you.

The "regular" crews sometimes take notice but most of the time they're minds are already set on GTFO, at which point I will ask if I really want one (rare).

Sometimes if it is a short taxi and I am the last to board, I don't bother them.

Food orders were taken.

What's the best way of sending a note? I don't want to make a big deal of it.

If it's worth posting on FT, it's worth writing in to customer relations.

You can use the Customer Support website. You can manage the tone in how you report it to them.