Locally Based Airlines Delay Return of Alcohol to Flights amid Uptick in Passenger Misconduct Incidents

DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Passengers who travel aboard two locally based airlines will have to wait a little longer for the return of alcohol to flights amid an uptick in passenger misconduct incidents on planes.

Many airlines suspended alcohol service on planes during the COVID pandemic, but planned to bring it back this summer. An American Airlines executive said in a statement released over the weekend that although its appreciated that customers want to return to normal, the airline will move cautiously and deliberately when restoring pre-COVID practices.

American Airlines announced that economy passengers will have to wait until at least September 13 to be offered alcohol on board a flight. Alcohol is still served in first and business classes. Southwest Airlines hasn’t said when alcohol will return.

Just last week a flight attendant had two teeth knocked out by a passenger on a Southwest flight from Sacramento to San Diego.