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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-intoxicated-passenger

Except in an emergency, may a pilot carry someone who appears intoxicated by alcohol?

No. The medical-patient exception applies to drug influence.

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  1. No ✔
  2. Yes, if they sit in the back
  3. Yes, if they wear a seat belt

Why: Rule 91.17(b) bars carrying someone who appears intoxicated by alcohol, except in an emergency. Its medical-patient exception applies only to a person showing drug influence and under proper care.

Huh, didn't know that: A medical patient under proper care is exempt from the rule's drug-influence clause.

The dad joke
Why can't a tipsy passenger board a small plane? The weight and balance would be all over the place.
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References

Answer: No. Rule 91.17(b) bars carrying someone who appears intoxicated by alcohol, except in an emergency. Its medical-patient exception applies only to a person showing drug influence and under proper care.

  1. 14 CFR 91.17 Alcohol or drugs www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-91.17
    Except in an emergency, no pilot of a civil aircraft may allow a person who appears to be intoxicated
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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