In a curious incident aboard the inaugural Air India Express flight from Surat, Gujarat, to Bangkok, Thailand, passengers reported that liquor stocks ran dry mid-flight. With 175 passengers and six crew members onboard, the claims sparked significant buzz on social media. However, airline officials have provided a different version of events.
Passengers Claim Liquor Shortage
Several passengers took to social media to claim that the flight, operated by Tata Group-owned Air India Express, ran out of liquor due to unexpectedly high sales. This drew attention, particularly because liquor consumption is prohibited in Gujarat, making the availability of alcohol on flights departing from the state noteworthy.
What the Airline Officials Said
Dismissing the claims, airline officials cited in a PTI report clarified that there was “sufficient stock” of both liquor and food onboard. According to standard policy, passengers are typically served no more than 100 ml of liquor during a flight.
Alcohol Prices and Offerings
The airline offers five types of liquor onboard, with prices ranging from ₹400 to ₹600 for 50 ml servings. Chivas Regal costs ₹600 for 50 ml, while Red Label, Bacardi White Rum, and Beefeater Gin are priced at ₹400. A 330 ml Bira Lager is also available for ₹400.
Food Service Options
In addition to beverages, passengers can pre-book their meals or purchase them during the flight.
Social Media Buzz and Official Silence
Despite the airline’s clarification, there has been no formal statement from Air India Express addressing the specific allegations. The incident has sparked mixed reactions online, with some users humorously pointing out the irony of alcohol running out on a flight departing from a dry state like Gujarat.
The Surat-Bangkok route marks a significant addition to international connectivity from Gujarat. Whether the claims hold merit or not, the inaugural flight has certainly garnered attention for more than just its destination.