A Ryanair steward who admitted to drinking alcohol while working on a flight told the court "I am not a criminal".
Sam Thompson was seen knocking back Jack Daniels from the trolley before guzzling a small bottle of wine, it was said.
The 26-year-old was allegedly spotted drinking in his uniform onboard the flight from Poland to the UK.
Police were called and he was made to take a breath test at Stansted Airport which showed he was more than five times over the legal limit for aviation crew, magistrates heard.
Last month, Thompson admitted to performing an aviation function as a member of cabin crew while his ability to do so was impaired by drink.
He was committed for sentencing at Chelmsford Crown Court on August 31.
Prosecutor Ashley Petchey said Thompson, from Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, is of "previous good character".
He added that it was an "unusual case" because there are "no sentencing guidelines", implying this was due to the rarity of the offence.
If convicted, the offence could lead to imprisonment and a fine.
Michael Carroll, defending, said it was a "great pity" the case could not conclude today as planned but said he has "glowing references" to show the crown court judge.
"We would like Mr Thompson to gain help," chairman of the bench Stuart Cranmer said.
"Clearly there will be a punishment element to it but hopefully you will get help."
Mr Carroll, who previously said the defendant and alcohol are "not the best of friends", replied: "I am grateful for you words, I'm sure they give some comfort to Mr Thompson."
Mr Cranmer extended Thompson's unconditional bail but reminded him he must be at court for sentencing and not commit further offences in the meantime.
Thompson, wearing a white shirt, dark trousers and brown shoes, stood and said: "I am not a criminal, sir."
Police were called at about 6.10pm on May 18 after a witness reported seeing a uniformed member of cabin crew drinking while working on a flight, the court heard.
Thompson took a breath test with a reading of 50mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath, before he gave a lower reading of 39mcg at Harlow police station.
The legal limit is 9mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath for aviation personnel, which is lower than the legal limit for driving of 35mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath, the court previously heard.
