At least in my eyes. Because what is an airport club to me except a place to grab a free drink and sit in comfort while waiting for the next flight?
Mommy Points shared last night that United started rolling out its new product “enhancements” at the United Club bar. No longer will I be able to get a free gin and tonic with something better than lighter fluid. Instead, a drink made with Bombay Sapphire will set me back $11. ELEVEN DOLLARS for the same stuff that costs only $7 on the plane. The slightly lower quality selections that were previously complimentary are now $7. Here are some of the new changes:
Complimentary
- Sycamore Lane Chardonnay
- Sycamore Lane Cabernet Sauvignon
- Bud Light (not even Budweiser)
- A variety of spirits. Honestly, do names really matter? They’re just kerosene with a bit of color and spice.
Premium
- Beefeater – $9
- Bombay Sapphire – $11
- Bacardi – $9
- Tito’s Vodka – $9
- Ketel One – $11
- Cuervo Gold – $9
- Patron Silver – $11
- Jim Beam – $9
- Jack Daniels – $11
- Dewar’s White Label – $9
- Heineken – $3
See a more complete list on the FlyerTalk Wiki.
At the United Club, food service was already long ago “enhanced” to the point of dry carrot sticks and stale yogurt raisins. Internet speeds are rarely better than the 3G on my phone. Space is limited at most airports where a club is actually necessary. And for all this, United is raising the membership fees and dropping benefits from the MileagePlus Club Visa.
Changes like these make me glad I canceled my MP Club card. Unlike Mommy Points, I don’t have kids, so I don’t really need a place for them to run around and have fun. If I’m going to pay $11 anyway, maybe I should sit in the terminal and pay $11 for something better and the opportunity to eat lunch while I’m at it. Most airports have free WiFi. Empty gates have plenty of space to sit.
Yet another change you’ll like.
