by Riley Cook
A US flight attendant has issued a cautionary message to travelers, advising against bringing their own alcohol on planes if they intend to consume it during the flight. Lisa Kulpa, a JetBlue flight attendant and co-founder of the Basic Travel Couple blog, emphasized the potential consequences, including significant fines, for such actions. Kulpa, who developed her passion for travel during her time studying abroad in Australia, revealed that the penalties in Australia for this behavior could exceed $10,000.
Speaking with The Points Guy about her valuable travel insights, Kulpa highlighted the importance of refraining from bringing personal alcohol on board and consuming it during flights. She underscored the necessity for airline staff to be aware of passengers' intoxication levels for the safety of both the passengers and those around them. Serving alcohol during the flight enables crew members to monitor consumption and manage any potential issues that might arise due to the effects of alcohol at high altitudes. Moreover, Kulpa emphasized that consuming personal alcohol on flights constitutes a federal offense that could lead to substantial fines.
In both the US and Australia, travelers are allowed to bring alcohol on board flights within specified liquid limits. However, passengers are not permitted to serve themselves alcohol. In Australia, the civil aviation safety regulations dictate that consuming alcohol on an aircraft is only permissible if provided by a crew member. If there is no crew member apart from the pilot, passengers are prohibited from consuming alcohol unless explicitly authorized by the pilot in command. Violating these regulations can result in fines of up to $10,233.
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Kulpa further shared her insights on other items travelers should avoid bringing on board. She cautioned against carrying nail clippers, nail polish, and nail polish remover due to their potent odors that might inconvenience fellow passengers. Additionally, strongly fragrant foods, including some fast foods, were also discouraged to maintain a comfortable environment for all.
On a more positive note, Kulpa offered recommendations for essential carry-on items that enhance the travel experience. She emphasized the importance of carrying irreplaceable items such as car keys, medications, and electronics. To ensure a more pleasant journey, Kulpa suggested headphones to escape ambient noise and create a personal space. She also recommended bringing a lightweight jumper or small blanket to stay cozy on cooler planes. For those averse to wearing shoes during flights, flip-flops (thongs) were suggested as an alternative to going barefoot when using the restroom.
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Kulpa's advice serves as a reminder that while air travel provides convenience and connectivity, adhering to regulations and respecting fellow passengers' comfort are paramount. Travelers must be aware of the laws and guidelines specific to their destinations and take steps to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey for themselves and those around them.