SAS Scandinavian Airlines has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs on duty following two incidents involving flight attendants testing positive within a month. The first occurred at Stockholm Arlanda Airport in late February 2025, when police conducted routine screening around 20:00 on a crew preparing for a flight to Copenhagen. One female flight attendant tested positive, prompting her removal from the aircraft and escort to Arlanda police station. A formal breathalyzer measured her blood alcohol content at 0.26 per mille, exceeding Sweden’s 0.2 per mille legal limit for aviation personnel. During questioning, she admitted consuming 2-3 beers the previous night, stopping around 21:00-22:00, and attributed lingering effects to limited food intake since breakfast. She claimed feeling fully fit for duty. The Attunda District Court is handling charges of drunkenness.
The second incident took place last week at Copenhagen Airport on March 26, 2026, where another SAS flight attendant, reportedly Swedish, tested positive during an alcohol check on board an aircraft. Danish police detained her, describing her as intoxicated. SAS press chief Alexandra Lindgren Kaoukji stated the airline views the matter very seriously and maintains zero tolerance for alcohol and drugs while on duty. Details on the alcohol level, flight route, nationality confirmation, and any delays remain undisclosed as the case involves ongoing police and personnel processes. SAS’s code of conduct prohibits employees from being under the influence of alcohol at or in relation to the workplace.