Beer Distribution: Best Day Brewing’s Kölsch Debuts on Alaska Airlines Flights

Alaska Airlines has added Best Day Brewing’s non‑alcoholic Kölsch to its international flight menu, starting on Seattle–London flights in May 2026 and expanding to the Seattle–Narita route in September. The partnership comes as a broader trend of airlines seeking healthier beverage options and U.S. adults increasingly looking to cut back on alcohol.

Best Day’s 12‑oz can contains 55 calories and is the top‑selling non‑alcoholic Kölsch in the United States as of 2023, according to the Brewers Association’s 2025 survey that found 58 % of U.S. adults intend to reduce their alcohol consumption over the next year. Alaska Airlines will offer the beer complimentary in First and Premium Class and for purchase in the main cabin, giving a high‑visibility platform without changing the product’s weight or packaging.

The move aligns with the non‑alcoholic segment’s rapid growth: IWSR Drinks Market Analysis reported a 31 % compound annual growth rate for U.S. non‑alcoholic beer between 2020 and 2023, reaching $440 million in sales by 2023. Although non‑alcoholic beer accounts for only about 1.2 % of total U.S. beer volume, its accelerated expansion suggests that a premium offering like Best Day’s Kölsch can benefit from the airline’s distribution channel.

For operators and distributors, the key takeaways are:

• Route timing – Service launches on Seattle–London in May and expands to Narita in September; inventory planning should align with seasonal demand spikes and holiday surges.
• Premium positioning – The beer’s status as a top‑selling non‑alcoholic Kölsch supports its placement as a “hangover‑free” alternative, appealing to the 58 % of travelers seeking lower‑calorie options.
• Margin focus – Alaska Airlines’ existing pricing structure for craft beers matches the Beer Association’s suggested price point for premium non‑alcoholic offerings, enabling straightforward margin capture without additional packaging costs.

Because Best Day Brewing is already available on Alaska Airlines’ domestic flights and the partnership covers only international routes, distributors should view this as a pilot program rather than an immediate wholesale opportunity. However, the high‑visibility launch window offers a unique chance for brands that share similar premium positioning to gain exposure among frequent flyers.

The collaboration underscores how airlines can leverage consumer trends—such as reduced alcohol intake—to enhance their in‑flight experience while providing craft brewers with a global stage for niche products.