Passengers fuming after popular airline announces major new alcohol rule

Passengers flying with TUI are going to notice a change the next time they settle into their long-haul flight.

The airline has announced a major change to its in-flight services from November, and it could leave some passengers reaching for their wallets.

For many flyers, a little tipple after take-off is an essential part of the travelling experience to help kick-start the holiday mood.

But TUI passengers flying Economy on long-haul routes will soon need to pay if they fancy anything beyond the alcohol already included with their in-flight meal.

From 1 November 2026, travellers will still receive complimentary soft drinks throughout their flight, as well as a complimentary beer or wine served alongside their main meal

However, if you fancy another glass of wine, a second beer or any other alcoholic drink while you're up in the clouds, you'll now need to buy it onboard.

Outside of your meal, alcohol will no longer be complimentary on Tui long-haul flights. (Dima_sidelnikov/Getty Stock Image)

The change will affect some passengers who have already booked their holidays, with the airline confirming that adults with existing bookings impacted by the update will receive a £12.50 refund per flight, each way.

A spokesperson for the airline confirmed the change to Metro, stating: "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.

"The Premium cabin experience remains unchanged."

Premium passengers will not be affected by the rule change. (Jaromir/Getty Stock Image)

The announcement has sparked a mixed response among travellers, who have taken to social media to express their woes.

While some are fuming that the beloved long-haul flight ritual is changing, others are quite happy with the update.

After hearing the news, one furious TikTok user commented: "That’s the end of Tui for me."

Another joked: "How RUDE."

And a third reasoned: "Won’t be using them then"

But other travellers reasoned that Tui's complimentary drinks limit mightn't be such a bad thing, having come across rowdy passengers in the past.

"Well done Tui. Unfortunately some passengers have ruined it for others," one comment read.

Some passengers are fuming over the update. (EXTREME-PHOTOGRAPHER/Getty Images)

A second agreed: "Good, as ground staff it’s ridiculous the way people go on"

And a third person wrote: "Good. Should cut down on alcohol related incidents. Happy to pay for a drink."

So, if you're flying with TUI from November onwards and had visions of enjoying a few extra drinks at 35,000 feet, it might be worth checking your budget before ordering another round.