Delta Flight Attendants Removed from Flight in Amsterdam After Failing Breathalyzer Test

On November 29, 2024, two Delta Air Lines flight attendants were pulled from their duties before operating DL49 from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The flight attendants, one male and one female, were found to have failed random breathalyzer tests shortly before boarding the flight.

The female flight attendant was found to be seven times over the legal alcohol limit for aircrew, leading to a hefty fine of €1,900 (about $2,000). The male crew member, who failed the test by a smaller margin of 0.02, was fined €275. Both were arrested and removed from the flight, which proceeded with a reduced crew.

Delta Air Lines, which enforces a strict zero-tolerance alcohol policy, suspended both attendants from their duties, with possible termination pending further investigation. This incident comes as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that all aviation personnel comply with the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Earlier this year, a Delta Air Lines captain was arrested after attempting to board a flight while intoxicated, highlighting the ongoing importance of adherence to aviation alcohol regulations. These rules are not just internal policies but also reflect broader industry standards, such as those set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which mandates random breathalyzer tests for all flight and cabin crews operating within the EU.

This case serves as a reminder that airline crew members must always be fit for duty, as any failure to meet alcohol-free requirements can jeopardize the safety and well-being of passengers and fellow employees. With the global airline industry holding air safety in the highest regard, these incidents underscore the zero-tolerance approach to intoxication in aviation.

How do you feel about the strict alcohol regulations for airline crew members? Do you think this is an isolated incident or a sign of bigger issues within the industry?