Can You Drink and Fly? What to Know About Alcohol and Air Travel
Air travel and alcohol have long gone hand in hand—whether it’s a pre-flight cocktail at the airport bar or a celebratory glass of wine once you’re in the air. But the rules around drinking while flying aren’t as relaxed as many travelers think. Between FAA regulations, airline policies, and the effects of altitude on your body, it’s worth knowing where the line is before you order that next drink.
What’s Allowed (and What’s Not)
Having a drink before or during your flight isn’t against the rules—but how, when, and where you drink absolutely matters.
Here’s the short version:
You can drink on a plane, but only if it’s served by the airline’s crew.
You cannot drink alcohol you brought yourself, even if you bought it legally at the airport duty-free shop.
Airlines and crew have the final say—if they believe you’re intoxicated, they can refuse to serve you or even deny you boarding.
This isn’t just airline policy—it’s federal law. Under FAA regulation 14 CFR §121.575, passengers are prohibited from consuming alcohol not served by the air carrier.
Think of it like a bar with a sky view: only the bartenders (in this case, flight attendants) can serve.
Why the Rules Exist
Flying changes how your body processes alcohol. Lower cabin pressure and reduced oxygen levels can make you feel the effects faster and stronger than on the ground.
Combine that with tight spaces, fatigue, and long travel days, and a couple of drinks can escalate quickly.
That’s why:
TSA limits carry-on liquids (so sneaking mini-bottles isn’t just frowned upon—it’s likely confiscated).
FAA and airlines train crew to spot signs of intoxication and intervene early.
Disruptive passenger incidents—many linked to alcohol—have led airlines to tighten policies in recent years.
What Airlines Can Do
If a passenger becomes visibly intoxicated or disruptive, the consequences are serious. Airlines can:
Refuse boarding or remove you mid-flight (if necessary for safety).
Ban you from future travel on that airline.
Report you to the FAA, which can impose civil penalties or refer cases for prosecution.
The FAA’s penalties for unruly behavior can reach up to $37,000 per violation—and alcohol-related incidents are among the most common triggers.
How Airlines Handle It
Policies vary, but here’s what most U.S. carriers include in their Contract of Carriage or onboard service rules:
Delta Air Lines: Passengers may not consume personal alcohol aboard; all service is at crew discretion.
American Airlines: Cabin crew can refuse service to anyone who appears intoxicated.
Southwest Airlines: Boarding can be denied to any passenger deemed under the influence.
United Airlines: Alcohol served in moderation only; outside beverages are prohibited.
Translation: even if you’re technically “fine,” the crew’s judgment is final.
Real-Life Example: Duty-Free Trouble
You buy a bottle of whiskey at the airport, thinking you’ll have a celebratory drink once airborne. You pour yourself a cup mid-flight.
A flight attendant spots it—and confiscates it immediately. You could be reported for violating federal regulations, even if you weren’t causing a disturbance.
Moral of the story: that sealed duty-free bag stays sealed until you land.
Responsible Flying Tips
Drink in moderation before boarding—keep in mind that one or two on the ground may hit harder at 35,000 feet.
Stay hydrated. Cabin air is dry, and dehydration amplifies alcohol’s effects.
Avoid mixing alcohol with medication or sleep aids.
Listen to the crew. If they cut you off, take it in stride—it’s for your safety (and everyone else’s).
Save the celebration for landing. You’ll enjoy it more with solid ground beneath your feet.
Bottom Line
You can absolutely enjoy a drink while traveling—but the sky isn’t a free-for-all. Only flight attendants can serve alcohol, and moderation is key to keeping your trip smooth (and legal).
Flying drunk can get you grounded—literally. So sip smart, stay respectful, and make sure your next toast happens at your destination, not at 30,000 feet.
Need help holding an airline accountable?
At Airclaim Legal Services, we help travelers use the law to fight back when airlines fail to deliver. From denied refunds to lost bags and beyond, we make sure your rights don’t get left on the runway.
Know Your Rights. Enjoy Responsibly. Fly Fair.
Cheers to holding airlines accountable.