- As you are aware, the aviation industry is considered not only the crucial economic indicator as to where and how the country is headed vis-à-vis development but also aptly showcases the ordinary citizens’ spending power in seeking out the comfort of traveling from the erstwhile conventional ones. Not so long ago, air travel was considered a luxury reserved for the well-heeled individuals who could afford the exorbitant fares whilst traveling from one destination to another. Not anymore, as the incumbent dispensation at the Centre has made a conscious effort to enhance the affordability factor allowing the common citizens to experience the fastest mode of travel. More and more common citizens are opting for the fastest mode of travel.
PC: Jagran English
- Not only the number of airports has gone up but people willing to choose this mode have also seen a quantum jump in recent years. The boom in the aviation industry is palpable and the effective airline operators are not complaining one bit. However, in recent times, some airlines are witnessing a peculiar challenge whenever a drunk passenger has stooped to uncivil behaviour like peeing on fellow passengers. Recollect how such news headlines were the talk of the nation in recent times eliciting widespread condemnation. Needless to mention, having drunk co-passengers can make flying a hellish experience. And now, post #peegates, there is the new fear that they might urinate on you. Ask those passengers who were targeted by the inebriated.
- Nonetheless, most of us have enjoyed many an in-flight tipple, without at all going overboard. There is this saying that comes to mind – one needs to consume alcohol, alcohol should not consume us. Indeed, this is where flight crews’ judgment and airline protocols’ solidity are tested. So, DGCA has done right to reiterate that it is up to the discretion of the airlines to draw the line. They get to decide the upper serving limits. The corollary of course is that they bear the responsibility of judging which passengers have climbed onto the plane already stoked and should not be served even the bare minimum. This is the just, joy-respecting, individual approach. Prohibition has its basis in the undemocratic idea of collective punishment.
PC: Times Now
- Because some people abuse alcohol, the right to drink is taken away from all persons. Govts passing prohibition policies do not bother with data on the percentage of abusing persons to total drinking persons. Some parts of such governments know well that if such data were to be collected, it would take all the fizz out of their case. When an overtly friendly co-passenger shifts into harassment mode how effectively does the crew respond? This is the crux of the matter. This is what the regulator should focus on. So that everyone who drinks responsibly can keep flying enjoyably. As it is, Indians are only served alcohol enroute to other countries. Domestic flights are bone dry. The airlines should decide when and how to draw a line while serving liquor.
