Is there a limit on alcohol served on airplanes? Should there be? What the experts say

In the United States, there is no federal law that specifically limits the number of alcoholic beverages that can be served to a passenger on a flight. However, this doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all at 30,000 feet.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibits passengers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless it is served by the airline. This means that even if you bring your own alcohol on board (which is allowed in certain circumstances), you cannot drink it during the flight.

Many airlines have their own internal policies regarding alcohol service. These policies may include guidelines on the maximum number of drinks to be served to a single passenger or time restrictions on when alcohol can be served during a flight. However, these policies are not typically made public and can vary between airlines.

It’s important to note that while there may not be a strict numerical limit, there are serious consequences for passengers who become visibly intoxicated or disruptive due to alcohol consumption.

Unruly behavior can result in fines, arrest upon landing, or even diversion of the flight in extreme cases.

Should there be an alcohol ban?

Michael O’Leary, CEO of European low-cost airline Ryanair, believes there should be a cap on booze in planes.

“I think the real challenge is: flight delays are up at a record high this summer, so people are spending time in airports drinking before they board aircraft,” he said, according to the Independent.

“We need to have a ban on airports – not (on) selling alcohol but limiting the amount of alcohol that can be sold to any passenger to two alcoholic drinks,” he continued.

Whether this plan is feasible has not been determined, but it is certainly something airlines could consider to prevent intoxicated passengers from ruining everyone else’s fun.