Currently, passengers in economy are entitled to three free alcoholic beverages throughout their journey but under the new policy, which will take effect on 1 November, they will receive one complimentary drink with their main meal, while additional drinks will need to be purchased.

The change does not affect Premium Economy passengers, who will continue to enjoy free alcoholic drinks as part of their service.

The airline said that customers who have already booked economy seats for travel after 1 November will receive a £12.50 refund per person, each way.

A TUI spokesperson explained: "From 1 November 2026, we are making some changes to the food and drink service included for customers travelling in economy on our long-haul flights. Customers will continue to receive complimentary soft drinks throughout their flight and a complimentary beer or wine served with their main meal. Additional alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase onboard. Adults with existing bookings affected by the change will receive a £12.50 refund per flight, each way."

TUI’s social media team added: "This change helps us focus on the things that matter most, like keeping fares competitive, maintaining great value overall, and giving customers more flexibility in how they spend onboard. Soft drinks will remain free, customers will still get complimentary beer or wine with their main meal, and there’ll be a wider range of alcoholic drinks available to buy, so people can choose exactly what they want during their flight."

The announcement has prompted mixed reactions from passengers. Some criticised the change, claiming the free drinks were a key part of the value they expected when booking.

One customer wrote: "Those of us that have paid in full paid for a FULL drinks service. Over £6,000 including flights only to be treated like second-class passengers because we are in economy. We didn’t buy premium because there were no seats left."

Another added: "If we purchased a holiday with all-inclusive alcohol on flights, that should be honoured. I accept that new bookings could have different rules."

However, some passengers welcomed the decision, highlighting concerns over passengers becoming disruptive after excessive drinking.

One social media user commented: "I can’t believe this is an issue. Take a look at the media and see those that are getting hammered on flights, causing delays."

The move reflects a wider industry trend of balancing customer experience with operational safety and cost management, while ensuring economy fares remain competitive.