Ryanair's Chief Executive, Michael O'Leary, has called for a two-drink limit for passengers at airports in an effort to curb the increasing instances of unruly behavior on flights.
He attributes the rise in disruptive conduct, which he claims occurs on a weekly basis, to the excessive consumption of alcohol, particularly when combined with other substances.
According to the BBC, O'Leary expressed his concerns over the safety of both crew members and fellow passengers who have become targets of these alcohol-fueled outbursts. He pointed out the irony of the situation, stating, "We don't want to begrudge people having a drink. But we don't allow people to drink-drive, yet we keep putting them up in aircraft at 33,000ft." He further noted that flight delays exacerbate the issue by providing extended drinking opportunities at airports.
O'Leary also highlighted the challenges airlines face in identifying intoxicated passengers at the gate, especially when they board in groups. He explained, "As long as they can stand up and shuffle they will get through. Then when the plane takes off, we see the misbehaviour." He added that the situation has worsened in recent years, with passengers not only drinking excessively but also consuming tablets and powder, leading to more aggressive behavior that is difficult to manage.
In response to this issue, Ryanair has implemented measures such as searching bags for alcohol before passengers board flights to Ibiza, one of the most problematic "party destinations". Other challenging destinations include some of the Greek islands.
An AirportsUK spokesperson has affirmed that disruptive behavior, whether due to alcohol or other causes, is unacceptable and could result in significant penalties, including fines, refusal of boarding, or up to two years in jail.
The spokesperson emphasized that airports have implemented various measures to monitor and tackle disruptive behavior, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all passengers. They concluded, "Airports are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers and we're pleased that the vast majority of travellers continue to enjoy their journeys responsibly."
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