FAA Provides Operational Guidance for Managing Intoxicated or Impaired Passengers

Feb. 11, 2026

Most people have heard reports of airline flights being disrupted by intoxicated or impaired passengers. These situations have generally been handled by well-trained flight attendants.

However, such situations are different and potentially riskier on flights under Part 91 or Part 135 operations where on some occasions, passengers are seated close to or at the controls of the aircraft.

The FAA recently issued an Information for Operators (InFO) that discusses the issue in greater detail and offers specific recommendations for Part 91 and Part 135 operators.

Those include:

• Incorporate into training:
  • Techniques for observation and behavioral recognition
  • Communication skills
  • Intervention methods for intoxicated/impaired passengers
• Develop and implement safety policies supporting flight crew assessments and decisions related to passenger impairment and intoxication.
• Develop and implement documentation and reporting procedures of impaired or intoxicated passengers.

FAA rules prohibit carrying anyone who appears intoxicated, and carriers must train flight attendants on identifying intoxicated passengers. However, there is no specific training or guidance on how to prevent intoxicated passengers from boarding.

Larsen said, “It comes down to the PIC asking him or herself, ‘What would I want an investigation report to say when I make a decision that could, simultaneously, save lives but cost me my job,’” said NBAA Director, Safety and Flight Operations Mark Larsen, CAM.

Larsen noted that operators can refer to NBAA’s Management Guide or draw on parallel industries when developing a training program. For example, bartenders and servers must be certified in some of the same techniques that apply in aviation situations. TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) provides much of the same information the FAA recommends.

“The ultimate goal when dealing with an intoxicated passenger is safety – for the passenger, the crew and everyone on board,” said Larsen. “That means recognizing potential risks early, communicating clearly and respectfully, and being prepared to take appropriate action to prevent a situation from escalating.”