On Wednesday, Air Canada announced that it will offer complimentary beer and wine in its economy class on flights within Canada and the U.S. until the end of the year.

In the past, Air Canada international flights offered complimentary food and drinks, while domestic flights did not. The new offer, which includes Canadian-made snacks, may give the airline a competitive edge this travel season.

The announcement comes after competing Canadian airline WestJet revealed its UltraBasic fare, a lost-cost fare option with many restrictions.

1. 
   Want a seat at the back of the plane and no carry-on? Try WestJet's UltraBasic
2. 
   Flight bound for Toronto turns around after 9 hours in air

The decision “allows the airline to operate as if it were a low-cost carrier, a regular carrier and a premium carrier in one,” John Lawford, executive director and general counsel of the Public Interest Advocacy Centre in Ottawa, told CBC News.

Air Canada’s decision to offer complimentary beer and wine in its economy class may be an attempt to provide a more premium service compared to its competitors.

“We’re giving our Economy Class experience an upgrade this summer with a selection of premium snacks on all flights, plus free beer and wine on all flights within Canada and the U.S.,” reads Air Canada’s website.