This fee is not new--airlines have been charging extra for alcoholic beverages for quite some time. Those small bottles usually come at a large price on an airplane.
We all know some will overindulge. Reports of unruly passengers and the occasional diverted flights they prompt are relatively infrequent. But it would take quite a few problems before the airlines revise these policies on alcohol. It is yet another attractive revenue stream.
In fact, many carriers have made it easier for passengers to imbibe by providing credit card payment options right at your seat. No more cash.
One more note: in-flight alcohol consumption also contributes to the effects of jet lag on long haul flights.
