FAA proposes $165,000 fine for Alaska Airlines intoxication

Federal regulators have proposed a $165,000 civil penalty against Alaska Airlines for allegedly allowing passengers who appeared to be intoxicated to board multiple flights. The Federal Aviation Administration announced the proposed fine, stating the alleged violations occurred on 11 flights between February 2024 and February 2025.

Federal regulations explicitly prohibit commercial airlines from boarding any passenger who appears to be intoxicated. The rules also forbid passengers from consuming their own alcohol onboard and require cabin crews to stop serving alcohol to anyone who begins to show signs of intoxication.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Alaska Airlines said it participated fully in the FAA’s audit of its policies and takes the matter seriously. The airline stated that since the agency raised concerns over a year ago, it has implemented meaningful changes to ensure compliance, including enhanced training for all flight attendants and customer service agents. The airline expressed confidence that the changes, which have been in place for the past year, meet shared safety standards. The carrier did not comment on how it plans to respond to the proposed fine.