Most North American airlines still charge for alcohol in Economy passengers, but Air Canada just eliminated that fee across its entire network. The Canadian carrier now offers complimentary beer, wine, and artisanal snacks to Economy passengers on every flight—from quick domestic hops to transatlantic journeys.
Canadian Brands Take Flight
Morning wellness shots and craft pretzels showcase local food culture at 30,000 feet.
The service rollout features an exclusively Canadian snack lineup that reads like a national food tour. MadeGood Mornings Cinnamon Bun Soft Baked Oat Bars appear on morning flights before 10 a.m., while TWIGZ Craft Pretzels and Leclerc’s Celebration Cookies satisfy afternoon cravings.
Greenhouse Ginger Defence Wellness Shots—available after 10:30 a.m. on select routes from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport—bring the trendy wellness shot culture aboard commercial aviation. The beverage program includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, with Air Canada claiming the distinction of being the only North American airline serving non-alcoholic Heineken 0.0 in-flight.
French wines round out the complimentary alcohol selection.
Key Service Details:
- Service launched September 2025 on North American routes, expanded globally in October 2025
- All Economy flights included—domestic, U.S., Mexico, Caribbean, and international routes
- Expanded Air Canada Bistro Menu now features Summer Fresh Hummus & Crackers and Quaker Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cups
- Morning-specific and afternoon-specific snack rotations
- Only major North American carrier offering free alcohol system-wide in Economy
This move positions Air Canada against competitors who continue charging for alcohol or limit complimentary offerings to premium cabins. While European and Middle Eastern carriers often include alcohol in Economy fares, most U.S. airlines still treat drinks as revenue generators—a practice that contrasts sharply with Air Canada’s new hospitality-first approach.
“These upgrades offer something for everyone and proudly showcase Canadian brands so that our customers can sit back, relax, and kick-start their travels no matter where they’re going,” said Scott O’Leary, VP, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada.
The timing aligns with post-pandemic travel recovery, where airlines compete on hospitality rather than just price. For Economy travelers, this eliminates the awkward in-flight purchase decision and transforms a basic transportation experience into something resembling genuine hospitality.
Your next Air Canada flight just became a showcase for Canadian food culture—with the tab covered.
