Virgin Atlantic Free Drinks: What’s Included With Your Fare in 2025
Flying with Virgin Atlantic in 2025 and wondering what drinks you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet? I’ve put together this helpful guide to all the free drinks available on Virgin Atlantic flights this year, showing you everything from refreshing soft drinks to premium alcoholic drinks across different cabin classes.
Key Takeaways
- Virgin Atlantic Free Drinks Policy: All passengers receive complimentary beverages regardless of cabin class, with options ranging from basic soft drinks in Economy to premium spirits in Upper Class.
- Cabin Class Differences: What you get depends on your cabin, with Economy offering good basics while Upper Class passengers enjoy premium wines and champagne.
- Special Services: Look out for special offerings like Mile High Tea and themed seasonal drinks that make your flying experience better.
Virgin Atlantic Free Drinks in Economy
The Economy experience on Virgin Atlantic might be the most affordable option, but that doesn’t mean you’ll go thirsty during your flight. All long haul flights come with a selection of complimentary drinks throughout your time in the air.
When it comes to soft drinks, passengers can enjoy a variety of options including:
- Coca-Cola products
- Fruit juices
- Water
- Tea and coffee
For those looking for something stronger, alcoholic drinks are also included in your fare. You can request:
- Beer
- Wine (red and white options)
- Basic spirits with mixers
The drinks service usually happens shortly after take-off, with the first round of drinks offered alongside any snacks. After the main meal service, cabin crew regularly pass through the cabin with water and juice. If you’re thirsty between services, you can simply head to the galley and ask a crew member, or press your call button to make a request.
Premium Economy Drink Options
Stepping up to Premium Economy gets you all the drinks available in Economy, plus a few extras that make flying that bit more comfortable. According to Travel + Leisure, Premium Economy on Virgin Atlantic offers some of the best value in its class.
Premium Economy passengers receive:
- Welcome drinks before take-off (usually orange juice or water)
- Better quality wine selections with meals
- After-dinner liqueurs
The service in Premium Economy is also more attentive, with more frequent drinks rounds throughout the flight. Your drinks will be served in proper glassware rather than plastic cups, which adds a touch of class to your flying experience.
Upper Class Complimentary Drinks
In Upper Class, Virgin Atlantic’s top cabin, the drinks experience is at its best. This is where you’ll find the premium beverage options that make flying with Virgin Atlantic feel truly special. A recent Forbes review rated Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class drinks selection among the best in the sky.
From the moment you board, Upper Class passengers can enjoy:
| Drink Type | What’s Available |
|---|---|
| Welcome Drinks | Champagne, orange juice, or water |
| Wines | Premium red, white, and rosé selections |
| Champagne | Available throughout the flight |
| Cocktails | Selection of classic and signature options |
| Premium Spirits | Top-shelf brands |
| Soft Drinks | Full range with premium mixers |
Upper Class passengers also have access to the onboard bar, where you can help yourself to drinks or chat with the bartender who can mix something special for you. The bar area is also a great social space for talking with other passengers.
Mile High Tea Service
One of the standout food and drink experiences on Virgin Atlantic is their famous Mile High Tea. This special service is available to all passengers, although the offerings vary by cabin class. BBC Good Food once featured Virgin Atlantic’s tea service as a noteworthy example of bringing British traditions to the skies.
The Mile High Tea typically includes:
- Selection of sandwiches
- Sweet treats
- Scones with clotting cream and jam
- Tea or coffee
For those in Upper Class, this service feels particularly special, with premium teas and the option to add champagne to create an afternoon tea experience worthy of a top London hotel. It’s a lovely bit of British tradition at 35,000 feet.
Special Dietary Requirements and Drinks
Virgin Atlantic is good at taking care of special dietary needs, and this extends to their drinks service too. Non-alcoholic options are plentiful, and the crew can usually provide:
- Non-dairy milk alternatives for tea and coffee
- Low-sugar soft drinks
- Alcohol-free beer (on most routes)
According to Allergy UK, Virgin Atlantic is among the better airlines for clearly labelling allergens in both food and drinks.
If you have specific requirements, it’s worth talking to the crew who are usually happy to help where they can.
Overall
Virgin Atlantic free drinks are a highlight of flying with the airline in 2025. No matter which cabin you choose, you’ll find a good selection of complimentary beverages to enjoy throughout your journey. From basic soft drinks and beer in Economy to premium champagne and cocktails in Upper Class, there’s something to suit every taste.
The thoughtful touches like Mile High Tea and seasonal specials show why Virgin Atlantic continues to be popular with travellers who want good value without sacrificing quality. Which? Travel surveys regularly show that onboard drinks are an important factor for passenger satisfaction, something Virgin Atlantic seems to know well.
Just remember to stay hydrated during your flight, especially on long haul flights, and don’t be afraid to ask the crew if you need anything – they’re usually more than happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drinks really free on Virgin Atlantic flights?
Yes, Virgin Atlantic includes complimentary drinks with all fares. This includes soft drinks, alcoholic drinks like beer and wine, and hot beverages. The selection varies by cabin class, with Upper Class offering the most premium options.
Can I get unlimited drinks on Virgin Atlantic flights?
While there’s no strict limit on the number of drinks you can have, cabin crew are trained to serve alcohol responsibly. You can certainly enjoy several drinks throughout your flight, but the crew may politely limit service if they feel a passenger has had enough.
What drinks are served with the main meal on Virgin Atlantic?
With your main meal, you’ll be offered a choice of drinks including water, juice, soft drinks, beer, and wine. In Upper Class, the wine selection is more premium and paired specifically with each dish.
Does Virgin Atlantic serve champagne in Economy?
No, champagne is typically only complimentary in Upper Class. Economy and Premium Economy passengers can enjoy sparkling wine on special occasions or purchase champagne on some routes.
Can I bring my own alcohol to drink on a Virgin Atlantic flight?
No, passengers aren’t permitted to consume their own alcohol on board. Any duty-free alcohol purchased must remain sealed until you reach your destination.
What time do they stop serving alcohol on Virgin Atlantic flights?
There’s no set time when alcohol service stops, but on overnight flights, the crew will usually dim the lights after the main meal service to allow passengers to sleep. You can still request drinks during this quiet period, but service is more limited.
