Two major changes to the liquor policy are headed our way on January 6, 2005:

1. Effective Jan. 6, United will charge Economy passengers $5 for alcoholic beverages in Atlantic, Latin America, South America and Caribbean markets.
2. After Jan. 6, you may no longer provide comp. liquor, wine or champagne to recognize passenger anniversaries, birthdays, etc.

And get this, Onboard Service states that 'If comp. liquor exceeds four drinks ($20) on a flight, the purser will be required to complete a DIS*123 report at the end of the flight or immediately following the conclusion of the ID with flight specifics and rationale.'

Obviously, this is being done for cost reasons---no guesswork there.