Are they restricting pre take off champagne on regional flights ?
 

I flew TG404 SIN-BKK earlier this week and they came around with the drinks tray containing juice and water before take off. When I asked for a glass of champagne he said 'Sorry sir, no more pre-take off champagne on this flight'. When I asked 'Since when ?' he said January 1st, and added he had only found out that morning.

Now I know they are in the habit of taking two steps forward and one back, but I can't believe they would do this as the savings would be negligible. Anyone else either had it or been denied it this month, particularly on SIN-BKK ?.

sheesh, that's ridiculous MAN Flyer.

I hope this is not the new norm !

I agree...! I would have had a hissy fit :)

Cheers,

AG. :-:

While I have no idea whatsoever, I am going to speculate that it may have something to do with paying tax on alcohol on the ground.

In my experience US Airways will not offer alcohol as a preflight beverage in many States because they do not want to pay the local State tax on alcohol. With regards to CO, they will not offer any kind of alcohol other than Sparkling wine on the ground in any foreign country because they do not want to pay too much tax while on the ground.

Dan

I'm on TG404 in February and I'll ask for champagne just to see what they say then. Will report back.
I really hope that they haven't stopped it though!

Likewise will post the answer that I am given if PDB Champagne is not offered.

Dan

Last night on TG584 BKK-PNH I was in the first row of Y but able to see into the rear C section on the AB6. It appeared the tray of pre-departure drinks contained champagne.

It seems to be random - how very bizarre for Thai! ;)

Cheers,

AG. :-:

But then again, wine and spirits in Cambodia can be had pretty cheaply!;)

Understatement of the week.:D

I flew TG 629 this afternoon HKG - BKK and can confirm champagne was served (and consumed!) before take off.

I wouldn't doubt they send some staff to go out and buy supplies @ PNH(as the taxes are quite negotiable:p) !

So long as they don't buy at duty free where the cost of a bottle is 2x the in-town cost.

Frequent travelers know that duty free isn't very free!:D Last time I was through I think you could get a bottle of Moet for $20 at Lucky :p!

I don't recall champagne being a great purchase, but I rarely get past 1L Bombay Sapphire for $13.50 to even check.:D