Should You Drink Alcohol on a Plane?

9 April 2023

Travel Debates is a series in which experts weigh in on the most contentious issues that arise in transit, like whether it’s appropriate to drink alcohol on a plane.

In today’s world, individuals are often captured in moments that become enduringly public, exemplified by viral behavior chronicled on platforms like TikTok. One particularly contentious behavior is the disruptive drinking on planes—ranging from mildly annoying to utterly chaotic. This begs the critical question: should one drink alcohol in the air? Is it worth the potential consequences?

The Varied Perspectives on In-Flight Drinking

The editors at iBestTravel share mixed views on in-flight drinking: while many agree that extreme intoxication is unacceptable, personal consumption habits differ widely.

Personal Experiences

Charlie Hobbs: Meaghan, do you drink alcohol on planes?

Meaghan Kenny: No, I tend to avoid it. Flying tends to make me feel puffy and tired, so I’ve learned to skip alcohol entirely. Instead, I look forward to enjoying a celebration once I arrive at my destination.

CH: When you used to drink, was it before boarding or during the flight?

MK: I typically enjoyed a vodka soda before boarding. It seems wasteful, looking back at it.

CH: And you, Alex?

Alex Erdekian: I’ve drunk before but don’t anymore. The glamor of sipping a fine cocktail onboard often fades when faced with reality—plastic cups, dehydration, and discomfort.

Disruptive Behavior and Its Impact

CH: Have you ever encountered rowdy passengers while flying?

AE: I’ve seen tipsy passengers that were mildly annoying, but thankfully no full-on drunks.

MK: I haven’t experienced it personally, but there are countless videos online of unruly passengers causing chaos, which reinforces the need for potential limits on alcohol consumption during flights.

The Appeal of Airport Bars

CH: My approach is quite different. I enjoy my wine at the airport and during the flight. Wine serves as a comforting sedative, helping to ease the tension that often accompanies airport travel.

AE: It’s crucial to note that the atmosphere of an airport bar is completely different from that of an airplane, especially when it comes to comfort and selection.

Alcohol Consumption Guidelines

MK: In-flight drinking loses its appeal in a cramped environment; mimosa consumption at the airport feels far more acceptable.

CH: There’s a certain aesthetics to drinking at a bar compared to while seated on a plane, where real glassware is replaced with flimsy cups.

MK: I advocate for limiting in-flight drinks, perhaps even adhering to a two-drink maximum.

The Effects of Altitude

AE: Interestingly, research suggests that altitude may not significantly impact how alcohol affects your system, despite concerns about lesser oxygen levels.

CH: Nonetheless, the surroundings can influence behavior. A cramped, suffocating environment might exacerbate tendencies to act out, especially when alcohol is involved.

Considerations for Fellow Passengers

MK: People travel for various reasons—business, leisure, or rest. We need to recognize that a plane isn’t merely a bar; it’s a shared space where consideration is essential.

CH: It can be challenging to manage one’s own comfort without imposing on others. My own experiences with intoxicated passengers have left much to be desired.

AE: Ultimately, there’s little glory in spirited behaviors on planes, and moderation is paramount for everyone’s benefit.

MK: We often overlook behavioral disruptions caused by other passengers, such as children, accepting them as a necessary part of air travel.

CH: Exactly! Allow everyone to enjoy their experience, however they choose.

AE: A personal note: frequent trips to the restroom can become an inconvenience for nearby passengers, especially if you’ve been enjoying beverages.

MK: I wonder if coffee has a role in managing hydration while flying.

CH: As for me, I embrace my coffee and wine—just being considerate about the seating arrangement is part of the fun!