I’m an airline expect – the only way you can get a free drink on a flight

AN AIRLINE expert has revealed the only way you can get a free drink during a flight.

For many passengers, air travel can become a daunting experience caused by limited legroom to unpredictable delays.

But there's one thing that can take the boredom away from flying - a well-deserved drink.

Those keen on a complimentary drink can end up splashing dozens on beverages on board.

Luckily, Airline expert and president of Atmosphere Research Henry Harteveldt has revealed how to enjoy a tipple without burning a hole in your pocket.

Passengers on long-haul international flights are offered meals which might already include a drinks for free.

Many airlines can even give away complimentary beer, wine and spirits.

But money-savers travelling on domestic flights don't have the same luck.

For this, Mr Harteveldt explained some companies can offer perks like coupons to loyal customers.

He told : “Some airlines will give certain elite status tier members complimentary drink coupons to redeem on their flights.

"If you’ve been delayed, sometimes the gate agent has the ability to give you a voucher that you can present (the flight attendant) for a beverage."

Premium cabins such as domestic first class and economy seats with extra legroom can also land a bonus.

Some tickets come with alcohol included in the fare.

However, if you can't snag a drink for free, experts said passengers can still pay reasonable prices for one.

The airlines whizz said: “If you can afford the cost of the ticket, you can probably afford the six or seven or $8 they’re charging you for beer or wine, or the nine or $10 they’re charging you for the cocktail."

Another travel expert, Andrew Henderson, from Two Guys on a Plane blog, advises against buttering up flight attendants for a complimentary drink.

He said the days of thinking a small gift would earn you better treatment are long gone.

Mr Henderson said: “There’s been a lot of articles recently that say if you give your flight attendant a gift, they’ll treat you better on the plane.

“That’s my hesitation. I wonder what the motives behind it are now.” 

When it comes to in-flight choices, airlines struggle with space onboard, so options are limited.

Passengers might not have access to their favourite drinks but companies still try to provide a variety of options.

Hartveldt added: “Don’t get on an airplane expecting that you’re going to get an artisanally-made beverage, even if you’re flying somewhere long-haul first class, there are only so many items that will be stocked on the plane.

“When you are 35,000 feet up you’re going to have to accept some compromises, so if you’re craving a really well-made cocktail, wait until you’re back on the ground.”

However, flight attendants can cut you off if things get out of hands.

Experts recommend to keep drinking under control despite the temptation.

It comes as a passenger revealed how she avoided paying for drinks on a Ryanair flight - but not everyone agrees with her.

TikTok user Rachael didn't want to pay for a bottle of water during a flight with the Irish low-cost carrier.