Flying dry: Major airlines that ban alcohol onboard
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Jan 17
- 6 min read
Updated: Feb 27
When planning a flight, most travelers anticipate the food and beverage options available on board.
While many airlines around the globe include alcohol as a standard offering, there are several major carriers that do not serve it, typically due to cultural, religious, or operational considerations. Here, we explore some of these airlines and the reasons behind their alcohol-free policies.
1. Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
As the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, Saudia adheres to Islamic law, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol. Consequently, Saudia does not serve alcohol on any of its flights, nor does it allow passengers to bring or consume alcohol onboard. This policy reflects the cultural and religious norms of Saudi Arabia.
2. Kuwait Airways
Kuwait Airways enforces a strict no-alcohol policy in alignment with the laws of Kuwait. Alcohol is neither served nor permitted for consumption during flights. Passengers traveling with this airline should be aware of this restriction when booking their tickets.
3. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
Following the prohibition of alcohol in Pakistan during the 1970s, PIA adopted a no-alcohol policy. The airline maintains this stance on all its domestic and international flights, reflecting the country’s religious and legal framework.
4. Royal Brunei Airlines
Royal Brunei Airlines operates in accordance with the Islamic values of Brunei Darussalam. Alcohol is not served on its flights, though the airline allows non-Muslim passengers to bring their own duty-free alcohol for personal consumption.
5. Iran Air
As Iran’s national airline, Iran Air follows the country’s strict laws prohibiting alcohol. This restriction applies to all passengers, regardless of the destination.
6. EgyptAir
While EgyptAir does not serve alcohol onboard, it permits passengers to bring their own alcohol for personal use. This policy aligns with Egypt’s cultural and religious sensitivities.
7. Air Arabia
Based in the United Arab Emirates, Air Arabia does not serve alcohol on any of its flights. The airline’s policy is rooted in the cultural and religious values of the region.
8. Jazeera Airways
This Kuwaiti low-cost carrier mirrors the policies of its national counterpart, Kuwait Airways. Alcohol is neither served nor allowed for consumption onboard.
9. Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
As Bhutan’s national airline, Drukair does not serve alcohol during flights. Passengers can carry alcohol in their checked baggage but should not expect in-flight service.
10. Riyadh Air
Set to commence operations in 2025, Riyadh Air—the new Saudi airline—has confirmed it will not serve alcohol, in line with Saudi Arabia’s laws and cultural values.
Additional considerations
While the airlines listed above enforce alcohol restrictions, some, like Royal Brunei Airlines and EgyptAir, permit passengers to bring their own alcohol for personal consumption. Passengers should also note that certain airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, serve alcohol on international routes but not on domestic flights.
Why do these airlines ban alcohol?
The primary reasons for banning alcohol on flights include:
Religious beliefs: Many of these airlines operate in countries where Islam is the predominant religion, and Islamic law prohibits the consumption of alcohol.
Cultural norms: Airlines aim to respect the cultural values of their home countries and primary customer base.
Legal requirements: In some cases, national laws mandate a ban on alcohol service during flights.
Tips for travelers
If you’re flying with an airline that does not serve alcohol, consider the following tips:
Research ahead: Check the airline’s policies on alcohol before booking your ticket.
Plan Accordingly: If permitted, bring your own duty-free alcohol for personal consumption.
Respect Cultural Sensitivities: Be mindful of the cultural and religious values of the airline and its country of origin.
Flying on alcohol-free airlines offers a unique experience, often rooted in cultural and religious traditions. By understanding the reasons behind these policies and preparing accordingly, travelers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or exploring new destinations, respecting these differences adds to the richness of international travel.
Free alcohol in the sky: Airlines that serve more
Several international airlines are renowned for their generous complimentary alcohol offerings in economy class, especially on long-haul flights.
Notable examples include:
Emirates: This Dubai-based airline is famous for its luxurious amenities, including complimentary alcoholic beverages in all classes.
Singapore Airlines: Known for its exceptional service, Singapore Airlines offers a selection of complimentary alcoholic drinks to economy passengers on international flights.
Virgin Atlantic: This airline provides free alcoholic beverages on international flights from 12 U.S. airports to destinations in the UK, enhancing the in-flight experience for economy travelers.
Qatar Airways: Recognized for its high-quality service, Qatar Airways offers complimentary alcoholic beverages to economy class passengers on long-haul flights.
Air France: As part of its in-flight service, Air France provides a selection of complimentary wines and spirits to economy passengers on international routes. Lufthansa: This German airline provides free alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits, to economy class passengers on long-haul routes.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: KLM serves complimentary beer, wine, and spirits to economy passengers, reflecting its focus on enhancing the passenger experience.
ANA (All Nippon Airways): This Japanese carrier offers free alcoholic beverages, including sake, beer, and wine, on international flights.
British Airways: Passengers in all classes, including economy, enjoy free alcoholic drinks on international flights.
Delta Air Lines: On most international long-haul flights, Delta serves complimentary beer, wine, and spirits in economy class.
Turkish Airlines: Known for its excellent in-flight catering, Turkish Airlines offers a range of complimentary alcoholic drinks on long-haul flights.
Qantas: The Australian airline provides a wide selection of free alcoholic beverages, including Australian wines, to economy passengers on international flights.
Cathay Pacific: On long-haul routes, Cathay Pacific offers a good selection of complimentary alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits.
Etihad Airways: Similar to Emirates and Qatar Airways, Etihad provides a wide range of alcoholic drinks free of charge to economy passengers on long-haul flights.
Finnair: On intercontinental flights, Finnair serves complimentary beer and wine to economy class passengers, along with an option to purchase additional spirits.
It's important to note that policies regarding alcohol service can vary based on the flight's origin, destination, and duration. Additionally, some airlines may offer complimentary alcoholic beverages only during specific meal services or times. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's advisable to check directly with the airline before booking your flight.
Drinking your duty-free purchases in the sky
Most airlines prohibit passengers from consuming their own alcohol onboard, even if purchased duty-free.
This policy is due to safety regulations and the need for cabin crew to monitor alcohol consumption. However, a few airlines may have more lenient policies under certain conditions. Here's what to know:
Airlines allowing personal alcohol consumption (under restrictions):
Royal Brunei Airlines: While the airline does not serve alcohol, it allows non-Muslim passengers to bring their own duty-free alcohol and consume it onboard. Passengers should confirm this with the airline before traveling.
EgyptAir: Alcohol is not served, but passengers may bring their own alcohol for personal use. Cabin crew will usually pour the drinks to ensure proper handling.
General rules and tips
Cabin Crew Involvement: On airlines that permit personal alcohol consumption, the alcohol must usually be handed to the crew to serve, as international aviation laws require crew control over alcohol distribution.
Duty-Free Alcohol: Many airlines allow you to bring duty-free alcohol onboard as carry-on luggage, but consumption is subject to airline policies.
Always Check Policies: Regulations can vary depending on the airline and route. It's best to check directly with the airline or review its terms and conditions.
Why the restriction?
Most airlines ban personal alcohol consumption to:
Maintain control over alcohol distribution and prevent overconsumption.
Ensure passenger safety and compliance with international aviation laws.
Minimize the risk of unruly passenger behavior.
If you plan to bring and drink your own alcohol onboard, confirm with the airline in advance and adhere to their guidelines.