As an expert in aviation regulations and practices, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the drinking age on international flights. It is important to note that the rules and regulations regarding alcohol consumption on flights can vary significantly from one airline to another, as well as from one country to another. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed to understand the drinking age on international flights. **Step 1: Understanding the Legal Drinking Age in Different Countries** The first step in determining the drinking age on an international flight is to understand the legal drinking age in the country where the airline is registered. As mentioned in the reference provided, many airlines adhere to the drinking age of the country they are based in. For instance, if you are flying with an American airline, the legal drinking age on board would typically be 21, which is the legal drinking age in the United States. **Step 2: Considering the Airline's Policies** While the legal drinking age in the airline's country of registration is a significant factor, it is not the only one. Each airline has its own policies regarding alcohol service on flights. These policies are often influenced by a variety of factors, including the airline's target demographic, the types of flights they operate, and the preferences of their customers. Some airlines may choose to serve alcohol to passengers who are of a lower age than the legal drinking age in their country of registration, while others may have a higher age limit. **Step 3: International Treaties and Agreements** International flights are also subject to international treaties and agreements that govern the operation of aircraft across national borders. These treaties can sometimes influence the rules regarding alcohol consumption on flights. For example, if an international treaty specifies a certain age for alcohol consumption, airlines operating under that treaty may be required to adhere to that age limit, regardless of the legal drinking age in their country of registration. **Step 4: In-Flight Service and the Role of Flight Attendants** Flight attendants play a crucial role in enforcing the airline's alcohol policies on board. They are responsible for checking the age of passengers before serving alcohol and ensuring that passengers do not consume alcohol if they are under the legal drinking age. It is important for passengers to respect the flight attendants' authority and follow their instructions regarding alcohol consumption. Step 5: Health and Safety Considerations Health and safety are paramount concerns on any flight. Airlines must ensure that passengers do not consume alcohol to the point of intoxication, as this can pose a risk to the safety and well-being of all on board. As such, airlines often have strict guidelines on the amount of alcohol that can be consumed during a flight and may refuse to serve alcohol to passengers who appear to be intoxicated. Step 6: Cultural Sensitivity and Respect Finally, it is important to consider the cultural norms and expectations regarding alcohol consumption in the countries that the flight will be traveling to or from. In some cultures, alcohol consumption may be frowned upon or even prohibited. Airlines must be sensitive to these cultural differences and ensure that their alcohol service policies are respectful of the diverse cultural backgrounds of their passengers. In conclusion, the drinking age on an international flight is a complex issue that depends on a variety of factors, including the legal drinking age in the airline's country of registration, the airline's own policies, international treaties and agreements, the role of flight attendants, health and safety considerations, and cultural sensitivity. Passengers are advised to familiarize themselves with the alcohol policies of the airline they are flying with and to respect the rules and regulations in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight for all. read more >>

Many airlines explicitly note the minimum age they will serve alcohol to on their flights, which is almost always the same as the drinking age of the country the airline is registered in. For example, if you are flying American Airlines, the legal drinking on board a plane age is 21.Dec 18, 2014read more >>