Emirates investigating 'champagne incident' recorded in viral video

In the video a flight attendant is seen pouring decanted champagne back into the bottle on-board a flight from Dubai.

Emirates will resume passenger flights to 'select destinations' from Sunday. AP    

Emirates airline is investigating a viral video posted online appearing to show a flight attendant pouring decanted champagne back into the bottle on-board a flight from Dubai to Barcelona in April.

Cabin crew have defended the actions of a female flight attendant, who was filmed on-board without her knowledge, shortly before take off in what appears to be an almost empty business section of the aircraft.

One crew member suggested that pouring champagne back into the bottle was done as it was easier to dispose of in the air, rather than when grounded.

“What I think is going on here is that the attendant is probably pouring the unused champagne back in the bottle before take off to then dispose of once the plane takes off,” said one commentator who posted alongside the YouTube video.

“We’re not allowed to pour things out while we’re on the ground. I bet they’re pouring it all back in the bottle so they can then pour it out at cruising instead of dumping it all in the trash can, making it all soggy before take-off.

“I could be wrong but realistically that’s probably what’s going on. Being a flight attendant is all about efficiency.”

Another agreed the flight attendant was also likely to be following best practice procedures.

“Sinks in aircraft do not go into tanks for removal upon landing, they are ejected through “drain masts” located at the bottom of the plane,” said hall01235 on social media.

“The drain masts are really hot to prevent freezing at high altitude, since the masts are open on the ground, champagne isn’t tossed down the drain so the ground crew doesn’t get hit.”

Others have criticised the act, claiming the unused champagne could have been recycled and served on-board.

Emirates is investigating the incident and issued a statement in response.

“Emirates strives to consistently deliver the highest quality products and customer service,” a spokesperson said.

“What the video depicts is not in line with our service standards. We are investigating the matter.”