Toss this one in the "it would have been better to apologize" file...

Since I'm a super-duper US Airways patron (the cheapest way to get to Barcelona), I was fortunate enough to get the following email today:

Subject: We're bringing back free drinks

We're bringing back free drinks

On March 1, we're bringing back free drinks in our Coach cabin. This includes sodas, juices, tea, coffee and water on all US Airways and US Airways Express flights.

We believe in our pay-for-what-you-choose-to-use – or "a la carte" – business model, but it's a work-in-progress. We are committed to remaining competitive and that's the main reason we have decided to bring back free drinks.

You still have the choice to only pay for the things you want – like checked bags, Choice Seats or First Class upgrades. And, those services will continue to be free for our Preferred members.

Always get the latest news and our best offers at usairways.com.

Sincerely,

Fernand Fernandez
Director, Marketing Programs

Now I know that the airline business has been hurting, and the future likely looks bleak, but seriously, would it have killed them to admit it was a bad call?

I mean, it's kinda obvious it was, and anyone who flies on a regular basis or ANY of your flight attendants could have told you that before you started the program. But you tried it and it didn't work.

So admit it. Apologize for it. Act like you care.

And an FYI - checked baggage had NEVER been something I want to pay for. Seriously Fern-Daddy.