diff --git a/Strategic/mapscreen.cpp b/Strategic/mapscreen.cpp
index c21a4812..79809c6d 100644
--- a/Strategic/mapscreen.cpp
+++ b/Strategic/mapscreen.cpp
@@ -11604,7 +11604,7 @@ BOOLEAN CanExtendContractForCharSlot( INT8 bCharNumber )
 	Assert( pSoldier->bActive );
 
 	// if a vehicle, in transit, or a POW
-	if( ( pSoldier->uiStatusFlags & SOLDIER_VEHICLE ) ||
+	if( /*( pSoldier->uiStatusFlags & SOLDIER_VEHICLE ) ||*/
 			( pSoldier->bAssignment == IN_TRANSIT ) ||
 			( pSoldier->bAssignment == ASSIGNMENT_POW ) )
 	{
@@ -11612,6 +11612,14 @@ BOOLEAN CanExtendContractForCharSlot( INT8 bCharNumber )
 		return (FALSE);
 	}
 
+	// if a vehicle has passengers
+	if (	(pSoldier->uiStatusFlags & SOLDIER_VEHICLE) &&
+			(DoesVehicleHaveAnyPassengers(pSoldier->bVehicleID) ) )
+	{
+		// then restrict contract menu
+		return (FALSE);
+	}
+
 	// mercs below OKLIFE, M.E.R.C. mercs, EPCs, and the Robot use the Contract menu so they can be DISMISSED/ABANDONED!
 
 	// everything OK