Passenger numbers are set to surge this summer, driving airline revenues and boosting local economies, but also bringing the occasional alcohol-fuelled problem during flights. Such problems regularly make newspaper headlines, especially with many events now captured on smartphone cameras.
Versilia Solutions, a specialist in inflight retail and service programmes for airlines, has come up with something that could help keep peace in the skies: a partnership with Best Bar None to introduce the aviation industry’s first specialised alcohol responsibility training programme.
Aimed at cabin crew and inflight retail teams, the training is designed to give staff the skills to identify early signs of passenger intoxication, confidently manage challenging situations, and consistently apply airline alcohol policies. Delivered through Luz, Versilia’s training app, the programme can integrate with busy work schedules and offer participants a transferable certification for future use.
Drunk passengers: An urgent and growing issue
In 2022, UK airlines reported over 1,000 disruptive passenger incidents – nearly triple the figure recorded in 2019 – with most linked to alcohol. Diverting a flight due to disruption can cost airlines up to £80,000, not to mention the emotional and physical cost for crew and passengers.
Versilia has found that over half of cabin crew members have witnessed or experienced abuse from intoxicated passengers, including physical and sexual assault. Despite these issues, there has not been a formalised training programme for responsible alcohol service inflight.
Adapting proven practices from hospitality to the skies
Best Bar None, backed by the UK Home Office, is an expert in alcohol management across the UK’s hospitality industry. In collaboration with Versilia Solutions, Best Bar None has adapted its proven principles from pubs, bars and clubs to meet the unique demands of aviation.
The key elements of the programme include:
- Recognising early signs of intoxication
- De-escalation techniques in case of disruption
- Consistent application of airline policies
- Practical guidance for timely interventions
Versilia says the training emphasises real-world scenarios over theory, prioritising safer, more consistent service to support both crew wellbeing and positive passenger experiences.
