Drunk on a Plane: What Happens Next?

After an eventful vacation, you and your friend found yourselves on a plane heading back home. However, upon boarding, your friend had to be kicked off for being visibly intoxicated. This situation is not uncommon, but the consequences can vary greatly depending on the location and actions of the individual involved.

What happens to a person who is drunk on a plane in the United States?

When it comes to drunk passengers on a plane in the United States, the situation is somewhat twofold. If the passenger behaves themselves, they may be temporarily removed from the plane and given the option to board a later flight once they have sobered up. In contrast, if the passenger becomes disruptive, obtrusive, or violent, they are more likely to end up in jail for the night. As a passenger on the plane, there is little you can do to resolve the issue. One solution might be to choose better companions next time.

Is your friend likely to be handed over to other passengers for a spanking?

Unfortunately, the idea of your friend being handed over to other passengers for a "good kicking" and then learning a lesson is not something typically seen in professional airline operations. While it's a creative thought, it's unlikely to be a practical or legal response from the airline.

Could your friend get back on the plane when sober?

Indeed, once your friend has sobered up, they can possibly get back on a plane. However, this is not guaranteed. In the case of a Club Med incident where a big lottery winner continued to party and voluntarily got off several airplanes, it was the staff who held him back until he was unconscious. This episode highlights the strict measures airlines might take to prevent further disruptions.

What happens in other countries?

Depending on the country, the consequences for a drunk passenger on a plane can vary. In most places, your friend will likely be placed on the next available flight once they have sobered up. However, in some countries, there may be more severe consequences, including fines or even jail time for more serious offenses, such as obstructing flight operations or aggressive behavior. Public drunkenness alone rarely leads to jail time, but actions that jeopardize safety, like interfering with a police officer, could seriously escalate the situation.

Long-term consequences and bans

After being removed from the plane, your friend is very likely to face a ban from the airline involved. This means they will need to book new tickets with a different airline to continue their journey home. The airline will likely take measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur, thus protecting the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Conclusion

When a passenger is kicked off a plane for being drunk, the immediate and long-term consequences can be diverse. Whether it involves a brief period of sobriety, legal ramifications, or a lifelong ban from an airline, the situation underscores the importance of responsible drinking and behavior, especially in public spaces like airplanes. Always be mindful of your actions and the impact they can have on yourself and others.