Last call: Alaska Airlines cuts preflight booze in first class

Alaska Airlines has eliminated preflight alcoholic beverages for first-class passengers, a standard perk on other carriers.

The new policy took effect Aug. 1. The change was made to align the policies of Alaska and merger partner Virgin America, according to Alaska spokeswoman Ann Johnson.

Alaska bought Virgin America in 2016 and officially combined the airlines earlier this year, eliminating the Virgin America brand.

Virgin America offered preflight alcoholic beverages but Alaska did not, except on flights to Hawaii, where it offered sparkling wine.

Travelers who liked the free drinks before takeoff are not thrilled. Rising country music star Brett Young called out Alaska in an Instagram story last week, citing a post on popular frequent flier site FlyerTalk.

There is good news for first-class passengers who like to toast before takeoff. Beginning Nov. 1, Alaska will introduce complimentary sparkling wine predeparture in first class on all flights after 10 a.m. Bottled water and orange juice will be the other preflight options.

"So for two-thirds of passengers, they are actually gaining access to sparkling wine at predeparture,'' Johnson said.

American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines all offer preflight cocktails for first-class passengers.