Passengers at the rear of airplanes have had little to cheer for a long time, and the Justice Department’s recent inquiry into allegations of collusion between carriers to control capacity, and in that way fares, has done little to improve relations. Still, several carriers have quietly restored or added a few creature comforts in economy class.

In June, United Airlines began serving free beer and wine in economy class on most international flights. The carrier is catching up with American Airlines, which restored free drinks in economy in 2012, and Delta Air Lines, which did so in 2013.

In December, the low-cost carrier Norwegian Air will introduce service from three East Coast airports, including New York’s Kennedy Airport, to the French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe that will include free Wi-Fi access.

Virgin America plans upgraded Wi-Fi service that will allow passengers to stream video on 10 new planes that are to begin operating in September. This upgrade also includes planes flying between San Francisco and Hawaii in November. Wi-Fi access will be free until a rate plan is established next year.