US Airways Rescinds Drink Fee
US Airways said today that it will end its policy of charging passengers for soft drinks, water, and coffee. This comes seven months after fees for these drinks were first implemented.
In a surprisingly candid explanation, CEO Doug Parker said "We know customers don't buy an airline ticket based on whether or not they will get a free soda onboard, but with US Airways being the only large network carrier to charge for drinks, we are at a disadvantage," Parker wrote.
Prior to the announcement, under its "Buy on Board" policy US Airways was charging $2 for soda and bottled water and $1 for coffee or tea. While most airlines have begun charging for various amenities that used to be free (i.e. checked baggage) none of them matched US Airways' drink charge.