Expert: Roberto Gomes - 1/6/2005

Question
-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Is it really an FAA violation to carry your own flask of liquor on a coach flight, especially when they serve wine and bloody Mary's anyway, or do airlines not really care?  I thank you for your help.
Answer -
Dear Augusto,

The FAA regulations prohibit pilots from performing crewmember duties within eight hours after drinking any alcoholic beverage or while under the influence of alcohol.

However airline regulations will apply if a passenger behaviour on board became inconvenient and at it's only discretion the airline can end the transportation contract held. This means that a passenger can not be accepted to be transported or if inflight, the captain can land at first opportunity to disembark such passenger.

Best Regards,
R. Gomes

So as long as the passenger behaves in a civilized manner while still imbibing alcohol, it is still okay with the airline?

Answer
Augusto,

Again, if passenger's behaviour is not adequate or polite and do not behave in a calm and reasonable way due to alcohol consumption or other substance, the airline will refuse transportation. Air flying and alcohol simple do not match.

R. Gomes