The familiar pre-flight drink that helps calm nerves before a flight may soon be permitted to accompany you all the way to the gate. Missouri has passed a law allowing alcoholic beverages purchased from airport bars and restaurants located past security to be carried elsewhere in the terminal in approved to-go containers.
The measure applies only to establishments located beyond security checkpoints, since open containers and liquids remain prohibited through security screening. Participating bars and restaurants must use designated take-away cups or similar vessels with secure lids, and they must obtain a specific license to sell alcohol for consumption elsewhere in the airport.
If implemented, the law would cover all international airports in Missouri. Similar programs at other U.S. airports — including Nashville (BNA), Houston (IAH) and Tampa (TPA) — have been viewed positively by travelers. Allowing passengers more time to enjoy a purchased beverage has been linked to an improved travel experience and more positive feelings about flying.
Although some raised concerns about the potential for intoxicated passengers moving throughout terminals, airports that have already adopted such policies report no increase in incidents tied to roaming intoxicated travelers.