FAA Proposes Fine for Alaska Over ‘Intoxicated’ Passengers

The airline said it has made changes based on the agency’s audit.

Alaska 737-900
An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-900 in San Francisco. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
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Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has proposed a $165,000 civil penalty against Alaska Airlines for allegedly allowing intoxicated passengers to board 11 flights between February 2024 and February 2025.
  • Federal regulations prohibit air carriers from allowing visibly intoxicated individuals to board an aircraft.
  • Alaska Airlines stated it fully cooperated with the FAA's audit, implemented "meaningful changes" including more training for staff, and is confident in its current practices to meet standards.
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The FAA has proposed a civil penalty against Alaska Airlines for allegedly allowing “intoxicated” passengers to board flights.

The agency said Tuesday that it plans to fine Alaska $165,000 for the violations, which allegedly occurred on 11 flights between February 2024 and February 2025. The airline has 30 days after receiving the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond.

Federal regulations prohibit air carriers from allowing anyone who appears to be intoxicated to board an aircraft.

In a statement, Alaska said it participated fully in the agency’s audit of its policies and practices and made “meaningful changes” after concerns were raised. These include more training for flight attendants and customer service agents.

“We respect the results of the FAA’s audit and are confident in the changes that have been in place for the last year to ensure our shared standards are being met,” the statement read.

It was not immediately clear if Alaska plans to challenge the proposed fine.

Zach Vasile

Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
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