Holidaymakers who enjoy bringing back local spirits as souvenirs may face a surprise at the airport if they overlook a crucial detail on the bottle label. The issue revolves around the alcohol strength, as airlines and aviation authorities prohibit passengers from carrying drinks with more than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) on flights. According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), travelers can transport alcoholic beverages with 24% to 70% ABV in retail packaging, up to a maximum of five liters per passenger. Any drink exceeding 70% ABV is not allowed.
While most mainstream spirits fall within the permitted limit, certain products like overproof rums, grain alcohols such as Everclear, Spirytus Rektyfikowany, and some absinthe types can exceed the threshold. It is crucial for holidaymakers purchasing local spirits overseas to confirm the strength before packing for their flight to avoid issues at the airport.
Various UK airlines have their own regulations regarding alcohol transportation. Jet2 strictly follows dangerous goods regulations, banning drinks stronger than 70% ABV and restricting those between 24% and 70% ABV to five liters per passenger. British Airways explicitly prohibits drinks over 70% ABV on their aircraft, while allowing up to five liters of alcohol within the permitted range. easyJet permits alcoholic beverages between 24% and 70% ABV, up to a total of five liters per passenger, and mandates that alcohol must be below 70% ABV. Ryanair prohibits alcohol above 70% ABV and drinking self-brought alcohol on board. TUI complies with international dangerous goods regulations, forbidding drinks with over 70% ABV and possibly permitting lower-strength alcohol with restrictions.
This limitation on alcohol strength stems from aviation safety concerns, as high-strength alcohol is more flammable than standard spirits, leading to stricter transportation rules. Travelers are advised to check the ABV of their spirits before heading to the airport to avoid any surprises during check-in or security checks.
