Southwest Airlines has done something quite remarkable — a headline that isn’t about a complete overhaul of their service! Brace yourselves because they’ve announced a new addition to the skies that’s both aromatic and deliciously caffeinated. That’s right, folks, they’re upping their coffee game!
Peet’s Coffee Soars on Southwest Flights Starting August 13, 2025
In an exciting new partnership, Southwest Airlines is teaming up with Peet’s Coffee. Mark your calendars because from August 13, 2025, you’ll be sipping on Peet’s coffee aboard all Southwest flights offering beverage service. For the first time, Peet’s is taking its luscious brews to the skies via a major US airline. What are we bidding a farewell to? Community Coffee, the current in-flight staple.
Passengers will get a taste of Peet’s “Off The Grid” blend, a medium roast that’s making its debut. This exquisite blend combines the vibrant notes of Colombian beans with the sugary embrace of El Salvador’s finest, bringing a flavorful symphony to your in-flight experience. It’s all about satisfying a wide spectrum of taste buds and leaving you wanting another cup.
Peet’s Coffee isn’t just hitting the skies; it’s already present in 25 airports covered by Southwest, including hotspots like Denver, Houston, and Phoenix. Talk about frequent flyer miles — or perhaps, frequent coffee miles?
Tony Roach, EVP of Customer & Brand at Southwest, had this to say about the new coffee collaboration:
“We are enhancing our inflight experience to better serve our Customers. A great cup of coffee goes a long way in creating a comfortable and enjoyable flight —and it’s just one part of our broader effort to elevate our customers’ journey with us.”
Adding his two cents is Eric Lauterbach, CEO of Peet’s Coffee:
“This is a defining moment for Peet’s. To be part of every Southwest flight means more than expanding our reach – it’s about creating memorable coffee moments in the skies. This partnership introduces the Peet’s experience to millions of new consumers as part of their daily ritual in a way that’s personal and meaningful. Most importantly, it brings the rich, bold flavor of Peet’s wherever their journey takes them.”
Why Airline Coffee Partnerships Matter
Airline coffee partnerships aren’t a new concept. Think of Delta’s love affair with Starbucks, United’s chic taste with illy, JetBlue’s fling with Dunkin’, and Alaska’s outdoor-themed romance with Stumptown. To the casual observer, it seems like a win-win deal for airlines and coffee brands alike.
But here’s a thought — does consuming a cup of airborne coffee cajole you into purchasing another on terra firma? Let’s be real; airplane coffee often leaves a bitter taste, sometimes literally. It certainly doesn’t compare to getting your morning cup from your favorite local cafe. And think of the machinery and dubious water tanks it’s made with!
That being said, credit where it’s due. Some airlines are making efforts to offer better alternatives, like espresso-based options that dodge the questionable water tanks or bottled cold brews. Unfortunately, don’t expect Southwest to be handing those out for free anytime soon. They did give iced coffee a whirl, but it was too sweet and ultimately nixed. Maybe we’ll find some at Val’s favorite mountain retreat.
What’s in a Cup?
Granted, airplane java often leaves much to be desired, yet it’s not uniformly terrible. For instance, JetBlue’s Dunkin’ brew edges out some competitors in taste. Alaska Airlines gets bonus points for their custom blend with Stumptown, carefully concocted to taste just right at cruising altitude.
I’ll admit, Peet’s isn’t my top pick — neither is Starbucks. Among the drip roster, Dunkin’ and Stumptown take the cake, in my book. But tastes are subjective, aren’t they?
What’s the Final Sip?
Circle August 13, 2025, in your planner if you’re a Southwest enthusiast because that’s when Peet’s Coffee replaces Community Coffee on flights. Personally, I’m not jumping out of my seat over either brand, but hey, to each their own cup of joe. If you’re taking to the skies with Southwest, prepare for a new coffee adventure.
So, what do you think about Southwest’s new coffee partnership with Peet’s? Would this make your in-flight experience better, or is another edition of plain, old airplane coffee?