Well said A and C, rare common sense.
I've been waiting for my coffee or walking to the gates with it in my hand (I'm not EK) and heard comments made by passengers on the lines of 'at least that is all he is drinking'. I would guess there are a few nasties out there who would rejoice in 'bringing down a peg or two' a pilot. Be careful out there, know the rules, stick to them and regrettably, treat passengers and security with a bit of healthy suspicion.