United fails to renew liquor license; 2 dry days at Newark

Airlines often frustrate road warriors with delays and cancellations. But this week United did something more egregious: it temporarily stopped serving free booze at two of its lounges. This wasn't the result of some cost-cutting measure or attempt to rein in drunk, unruly passengers. It was an administrative error: somebody at the airline never renewed its liquor license. So on Wednesday and Thursday the two United Clubs in Terminal C of Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey couldn't serve any beer, wine or spirits until the matter was resolved with Newark City Hall. The license issue was resolved by Friday morning and travellers were once again able to get free cocktails before jetting off. "We resumed service this morning and apologize to our customers for the inconvenience," said United spokesman Rahsaan Johnson.<br/>