For those of us who fly to and from Hawaii regularly, the journey is often still a celebration in the sky, despite all the challenges of modern-day air travel. But on a recent First Class flight, what we witnessed raised serious questions about airline policies and safety: a visibly inebriated flight attendant being served multiple drinks while “deadheading.”
The person was not in uniform but was part of the crew. They were seated up front and, throughout the flight, had many conversations with other crew members who came to talk story with them. We noticed they were feeling the alcohol while continuing to receive more from the working crew—who appeared entirely unfazed.
This wasn’t the first time we’d encountered this, and while not frequent, each time—to our recollection—it happened on the same airline over a couple of decades’ time. That led us to take note when others started writing about this and to dig into the rules behind a situation that may surprise many Hawaii travelers.
Airline fine print behind flight attendant drinking.
In airline terms, “deadheading” refers to crew members flying as passengers, often to reposition for a future assignment. They aren’t working the flight, are typically not wearing an airline uniform, but are still technically considered to be on duty.
One major U.S. carrier with a big focus on Hawaii flights, United Airlines, permits these off-duty flight attendants to drink onboard under specific conditions: they must be out of uniform, not scheduled to work another flight that day, and only drink after the aircraft door is closed. Most other airlines have phased it out due to concerns about safety and public perception.
In other words, this isn’t a policy loophole—it’s deliberate. And now, it’s getting media attention.
What makes Hawaii flights different?
Hawaii flights are longer than most domestic flights and are unquestionably more isolated, with limited diversion options and stricter overwater safety protocols. Airlines consider every crew member onboard, whether working or not, part of the larger safety equation.
If something goes wrong over the Pacific, no matter the nature, having a visibly impaired crew member onboard—regardless of whether they’re scheduled to work—could be a concern. These are not short hops where help is always nearby. Preparedness becomes a greater issue when passengers are up to six hours from the mainland.
That’s why this particular policy might feel different when applied to Hawaii routes. It’s not just about perception—it’s about readiness when needed most.
Why this matters now.
Recent headlines about flight attendants and alcohol use—such as failed breathalyzer tests and crew removals—highlight the growing scrutiny on airline safety and conduct. Policies like this can seem increasingly outdated in an era of heightened awareness.
The rationale for allowing drinking may appear more reasonable on Hawaii flights, where flight time is long and reassignments are unlikely. However, the flip side is that the consequences of an impaired crew member could be more serious, especially if an issue arises with no one else available to step in.
A bigger debate over alcohol, behavior, and trust in the skies.
Alcohol and air travel have long sparked debate among our readers. In a recent Beat of Hawaii article, dozens of comments poured in with frustration, personal observations, and concrete suggestions.
One commenter, JA, pointed out that most passengers don’t realize it’s illegal to fly while intoxicated and proposed visible signage to deter it. Meanwhile, others advocated for simple, enforceable solutions—like limiting onboard alcohol or reviving face-to-face check-ins to catch visibly impaired travelers.
Mike C, proposed tracking drinks by boarding pass and time stamp to limit pre-flight alcohol consumption. At the same time, Don K pushed back against impractical solutions, saying, “Breathalyzers before boarding? Maybe the single dumbest thing I’ve read in a while.”
A shared concern unites all these comments: passengers want safe, predictable flights—and they’re increasingly skeptical about anything that could compromise that. So when passengers see flight attendants, even off-duty ones, being served alcohol, the reaction may be as much about trust as it is airline policy.
What travelers have told us.
After sharing our experience, we heard from other travelers who’d seen similar behavior. One visitor told us, “I didn’t realize they were crew until they started talking about work mid-flight. They were on their third glass of wine. It just felt wrong.”
Another BOH reader told us, “If I showed up tipsy to my job, I’d be fired. Why should someone being paid to fly be drinking at all?”
Others pushed back. “They’re done for the day. If they’re off the clock and following the rules, they should be allowed to enjoy the flight like anyone else.”
This split perspective makes the issue so compelling—and why we decided to share it.
Airline loophole or a smart perk?
Supporters of the policy say it’s a matter of fairness. A deadheading flight attendant, out of uniform and done with work for that day, is still a passenger. Why shouldn’t they be treated like one in all regards?
Critics argue that air travel’s unpredictability—from medical emergencies to diversions or unexpected staffing needs—makes any level of impairment unacceptable. On Hawaii routes, where flights are longer and assistance options are limited, the risks can be amplified.
As a passenger, would you be comfortable knowing a potentially inebriated crew member is onboard and might be asked to assist in an emergency?
A quiet airline policy, now being exposed.
This policy has existed quietly for some time. Honestly, we didn’t know about it ourselves, and we suspect most passengers don’t either. With renewed attention this week, it’s suddenly under a brighter spotlight.
In our case, what was most concerning wasn’t just the drinking—it was how intoxicated the crew member became, and how casually the working staff continued to serve them. It suggested to us that this wasn’t unusual.
That leaves us wondering: How common is this, and how do travelers feel about it—especially on long, remote flights like those to and from Hawaii?
What do you think?
Have you seen this happen on your Hawaii flight? Should off-duty crew be treated like passengers, or held to a higher standard?
As passengers, we trust that everyone onboard—crew included—is prepared for the unexpected. Policies like this challenge that trust and raise an important question: where should the line be drawn, especially on high-stakes routes like Hawaii?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Let us know in the comments.
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I believe deadheading is considered being on company time. I wonder if the airline is aware of this behavior. I wonder if the flight attendant paid for the drinks. Airline policy might allow drinking while deadheading but then again policy might not allow it. Hopefully a flight attendant will respond as to what policy is.
First, we don’t know what which airline this is, so it will be difficult for a response. Second, to clarify, the poster does not say how they knew the person was deadheding. So, we don’t know if that part is true. Third, every airline has different rules !
“technically considered to be on duty” that’s the key phrase. This defines the rule… no they should not be drinking alcohol. Simple , doesn’t matter what anyone’s personal opinion is. The rules apply.
Yes, off-duty crew members, particularly those in roles of public trust, should be held to a higher standard of conduct, as their actions can reflect on their profession and potentially impact the image of the airline company
100% agree with you, Ed
What a load of elitist. It sounds like First Class doesn’t like their lessers enjoying one of the few benefits afforded them. It’s this kind of Karen attitude that is hosting this country. First Class is usually booze drenched because it’s free. There are already rules in place, and nobody is getting hurt, so lay off the help when they are off the clock.
I have absolutely no problem with them drinking if they aren’t in uniform or responsible for passengers.
I just wish there was no alcohol available on flights. People do not know how to behave anymore and we all pay the price. I for one can make a flight without drinking, and on shorter flights, don’t need to eat.
So hoping the FA sobered up before getting into a car!!! Just imagine on shorter trips and get into an accident because they were over served from on duty FAs. Could be a large lawsuit in the making. Just like a bar over serving someone then getting into an accident and killing that person(s). Fault on the bar for not cutting that person off and not calling a ride service or cab.
I’m on the side of “If they’re not on the clock, treat them as any other passenger”. That said, they should not be overserved nor should they be intoxicated upon boarding, both of which I assume applies to all passengers.
Two points, if the Employee is flying on a ‘Deadhead’, it is to work, which the Carrier underwrites. Regardless of being on or off the clock, given all the situations in the air from 2021 forward, one would assume if help were needed, that person would be responsible and pitch in with the team, as the Emergency takes precedence. To being Upgraded to First/Business, it’s more then ironic, with the articles that point out abusive consumption of Alcohol and the Airlines response that they control what fliers consume, that an Associate gets a free pass, regardless of his or her condition, while paying Customer is ignored.
We were very disappointed in our first class flight to Hawaii. Only 1 crew member for the entire section. He didn’t offer drinks, and he spent most of the flight sitting on the metal roller food container against the bathroom door. I felt not right asking him to move, or for drinks, and used the restroom at the back of the plane. He was very unprofessional, and didn’t even look like a steward.
Drink up! For all they put up with they should be allowed to indulge! I don’t have a problem with it
I share your concern about the impaired state of employees at the work site, whether or not they’re on duty. I’d like to add a related thought.
I was a platinum member of the Hawaiian Airlines frequent flyer program for years before I retired. It always irked me that crew members were given premium seats, slipped freebies even in the main cabin and provided deferential treatment before recognizing the company’s most senior frequent flyers.
It’s called a job perk. What sort recognition do you require?
Unfortunately this is not a new situation. 55 years ago when I was a Delta stewardess I boarded my flight to work and there in first class was an off duty stewardess passed out in first class. As I was not the senior crew member the decision of what to do with her was not up to me. It was very embarrassing.
As a frequent first class flyer, I have witnessed deadheading flight attendants in the forward cabin drinking like fish! The solution t this is simpe; deadheading flight attendants should not be assigned first class seats. If first class seats are available, they should be filled with passengers who have earned upgrades through their dedication to the airline.
Your comment amplifies why America is falling apart right now. It’s OK for someone to be drunk and belligerent in Economy but not First Class? Let them eat cake!
Duh…if they weren’t in uniform, they weren’t part of the crew.
They were deadheading…so they were getting paid. They shouldn’t have a FC seat and shouldn’t be drinking while on the clock…regardless if they aren’t “working”
I think this is an opportunity to compromise. Limit the drinking to two drinks. It sounds like this flight attendant was hell-bent on getting drunk and, like any passenger, getting intoxicated can only introduce problems.
If paying customers are not allowed to drink Themselves into oblivion … why should aline employees be allowed to do so? Drunks do not belong on a plane. My personal option.
Since all of you seem to be so hell bent on sticking your nose in everyone elses business, I propose No alcohol or happy hours at holiday parties or work functions for any employees or any executives at any time. No alcohol with any meals paid on an expense account at any company either. Get a life.
Works for me!
As much as I think this is wrong, I can certainly understand why …..can you imagine dealing with some of these people daily? As a job?!! Gate lice, seat squatters, drunk passengers I’m not much of a drinker, but I would be having to deal with even just one of these types. Like being a server, takes a special person and I have so much respect for them because it takes such patience! Just sayin’.
They are not passengers in their own jet or auto. They are on public transportation. In Hawaii they can’t even have one glass of wine on a public beach. They drink while waiting at the airport, and more on the plane. Airlines and airports put up with it because it is a huge profit center. It will never be restricted.