How should you handle a drunk crew member who has not yet boarded?

• A. Do nothing until boarding is complete
• B. Detain the individual until after flight
• C. Inform a supervisor only after flight
• D. Do everything to keep them away from the aircraft before boarding, alert nearby crew, speak with them about impairment, remind them of safety and legality, and involve HR if escalated

Answer: (D)

Safety comes first: an impaired crew member should not board, and the situation needs to be addressed before any risk to flight safety arises. The best approach is to intervene now by keeping the person away from the aircraft, alerting nearby crew so support is available, and engaging in a calm conversation about their impairment. Explain the safety obligations and the legal and company consequences of being unfit for duty, and assess their ability to comply. If the impairment cannot be resolved or if there’s resistance, escalate to a supervisor and involve HR or security as needed. This sequence protects passengers and other crew, ensures proper handling under policy, allows for documentation, and supports a fair, structured response.

Choosing not to act before boarding creates safety and compliance risks. Waiting until after the flight or after boarding has begun misses the chance to prevent problems during boarding and on the aircraft. Responding only after the flight or delaying until it’s too late can lead to operational disruption or legal issues. The emphasis here is on proactive, safety-first intervention that follows proper channels and preserves both safety and dignity.