Alcohol should be served in a ‘reasonable, safe manner’: AI to cabin crew

Air India has recently issued guidelines to its cabin crew members on how to handle passengers while serving alcohol. The guidelines seek to ensure that alcohol is served in a safe and reasonable manner and that passengers are not consuming alcohol to an extent that will present a hazard to the aircraft, to persons on board, or to the passengers themselves.

The National Restaurants Association (USA) Traffic Light system has been mandated for use to recognize and manage possible intoxication. If a passenger is in the green zone (sociable, relaxed, comfortable, or happy), then the cabin crew can continue to serve alcohol. However, they must offer food to slow intoxication. If the passenger is in the yellow zone (exhibiting reduced inhibitions, impaired judgment, using foul language, arguing, etc.), then the cabin crew must immediately notify the cabin supervisor and stop serving alcohol. If the passenger is in the red zone (exhibiting behavior such as moving in slow motion, making irrational statements, losing train of thought, or walking awkwardly, etc.), then they must not be served alcohol.

It is important for the cabin crew to be tactful and discreet when dealing with a guest who appears to be intoxicated. They must also notify the cabin supervisor and pilot in command if a guest appears to be intoxicated or drinks from their own supply of alcohol. If the guest refuses to comply with crew member requests, then the cabin crew should follow the handling of unruly guest procedures.

These guidelines are an important step in ensuring the safety of passengers on Air India flights. The guidelines will help cabin crew members in identifying and managing intoxicated passengers, and in ensuring that alcohol is served in a safe and reasonable manner.