Jan. 04--Chicago-based United Airlines has one of the highest-ranked in-flight beer selections because of the growing selection of craft brews, a recent study found.
The study, by Travelpulse.com and beer-rating site Beer Advocate, found United had the third-highest average beer ranking among the nation's biggest airlines. It was behind only Alaska Airlines, which was one of the first to serve craft beer in the skies, and Delta Airlines.
Beer Advocate uses a weighted point system to rank beers according to taste, appearance, smell and overall impression. United's selection has a 69 average score, combining its traditional offerings of Budweiser, Miller Lite and Heineken with newer craft beer selections Goose IPA (from Chicago's Goose Island Beer Co.) and Samuel Adams Winter Lager.
United introduced Goose IPA on flights worldwide in April, and Samuel Adams Winter Lager in December. Sam Adams is a seasonal craft beer selection that will rotate.
Delta was the overall winner with an average score of 73.6. It offers Blue Moon, Sam Adams and Sweetwater 420 in addition to Heineken and Miller Lite.
Alaska Airlines had an average score of 71.8, offering two Alaskan beers and a Hawaiian craft brew.
To see the full rankings, go to www.travelpulse.com
sbomkamp@tribpub.com
