Airlines are getting a bit more “crafty” with their beverage service. A few days ago, 21st Amendment Brewery announced on its Facebook page that Virgin America Airlines would be offering Brew Free! Or Die IPA as part of their inflight beverage service. This follows Alaska Airlines’ long-standing tradition of offering craft beer to its passengers (most recently they’ve served beers from MacTarnahan’s Brewing Company and Alaskan Brewing Company).
Why are craft beers suddenly “taking off” in the world of inflight service? Well, aside from the fact that customers are demanding a better selection of beers, airlines generally serve beverages from cans — because of their light weight compared to glass bottles — so the growing selection of craft beers available in cans makes it easier for airlines to serve tasty craft brews. That’s why beers like Brew Free! Or Die IPA, MacTarnahan’s Amber Ale, and Alaskan Amber Ale — which are all packaged in cans – are finally becoming as popular as insufficently-sized-bags of pretzels and unwanted chit-chat on domestic flights.
Northwest flights outta MSP have offered Schell’s Firebrick for years now.
Are they going to have Monk’s Blood cans on Virgin Flights? The latest in 21st Amendment’s Insurection Series. It’s an oak aged Belgian Dark ale.
HOLY Hangover BATMAN! That’s an intense beer.
Alaskan Air has been serving Pyramid Brewing on their flights for awhile. Best of all they offer it free of charge. Unfortunately the stewardess wouldn’t give me any on my 6am flight back home
Horizon Air, who are also a part of Alaska Airlines, often serve micro-brewery beers on their flights. They open up the large 650ml bottles and give everyone who wants it a nice glass, even in the morning! Now that’s good service!
[...] Trivia: Good beer in the “friendly skies” is starting to become more common, especially with more craft brewers putting beer in cans. In addition to my finding “Leinie” on United, apparently Alaska Air has been serving craft beer since 2000, and Virgin America is now offering Brew Free or Die IPA. More about better beer in the air can be found on Beer Nation. [...]