Ryanair flight Alicante-Glasgow Prestwick diverted to Seve Ballesteros-Santander Airport on December 28, 2024. The diversion came after a Scots Ryanair passenger’s disruptive behavior was beyond the crew’s control.
Incident Details
In-flight, a male Scots Ryanair passenger was becoming increasingly unruly, leading the crew to ask for police assistance. When the plane landed in Santander, the Spanish police went on board and took the individual off. Passengers onboard cheered as the man was removed, underscoring the relief that passengers aboard expressed during the Ryanair flight.
Airline Response
ApologisingApologizing to passengers affected by the incident, Ryanair stressed such behaviourbehavior was out of their control. “We sincerely apologise to passengers for any inconvenience caused as a result of this unruly passenger’s behaviour, which was outside of Ryanair’s control,” said a spokesperson. “We sincerely apologize to passengers for any inconvenience caused as a result of this unruly passenger’s behavior, which was outside of our control,” said a Ryanair spokesperson.
Increase in Air Rage Incidents
This incident is part of a worrying rise in of disruptive passenger behavior on flights. Alcohol-fueled incidents among cabin crews have raised concerns for safety. Since 2022, at least 19 flights carrying Scottish travelers have had their plans for travel and for a return to Scotland disrupted. Ryanair, among other airlines, has been significantly impacted by this trend.
Airline Policies And Legal Ramifications
Airlines have a strict zero-tolerance approach toward disruptive conduct. Disruptive passengers will face court actions, fines and lifetime bans. In fact, recently a passenger was fined €400 and sentenced to a suspended sentence for not following crew instruction during a Ryanair flight.
Preventative Measures
To help prevent such incidents, airlines and airports have taken steps like limiting alcohol consumption before or during flights. Campaigns like “No Excuse for Abuse” target rowdy behavior to protect passengers and crew.
