Southwest to stop taking cash for drinks

Airline will accept debit, credit cards only for fee items starting Sept. 9

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updated 1:33 p.m. ET Sept. 2, 2008

DALLAS - Put away those dollar bills if you're flying on Southwest Airlines Co. — beginning Sept. 9, the airline won't take cash for in-flight items such as beer and wine.

Southwest says on its Web site that it will accept credit and debit cards and Rapid Rewards drink coupons for items that carry a fee, which also includes cocktails and energy drinks.

The Dallas-based carrier says it will still offer free snacks and soft drinks.

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