Unruly passenger incidents on airplanes have seen a significant increase globally, rising by 47% in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to a recent report from the International Air Transport Association.
In the United States alone, 250 cases of unruly passengers have been referred to the FBI for potential prosecution.
Former FBI Special Agent Jonathan Gilliam, who also served as an air marshal, attributes part of this increase to the shift towards "no frills airlines" even among major carriers. Gilliam explains that the care for passengers has diminished, as airlines have become frustrated with unruly behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the industry has experienced a loss of experienced flight attendants, resulting in a decline in customer service-oriented staff.
Gilliam emphasizes that passengers have become increasingly apathetic towards the rules and regulations on flights. He draws a parallel between the way people treat police officers and the disregard for authority exhibited by unruly passengers. This self-centered and self-indulgent behavior, according to Gilliam, has become pervasive in society.
Several instances of unruly passengers serve as examples of the growing problem. In one incident, a passenger on a Thai Smile flight from Chiang Mai International Airport to Bangkok caused the entire plane to return to the gate after becoming upset about leaving his bag behind. The passenger complained to flight attendants about the bag, which contained valuable items, including money. The situation escalated when a flight attendant attempted to force the passenger back to his seat. Eventually, the plane returned to the terminal, further delaying the already late flight.
Another incident involved a Frontier Airlines flight from Philadelphia to Las Vegas, which was diverted to Denver International Airport due to a fight between two female passengers. The flight, already delayed by an hour, was disrupted when one passenger became disruptive, leading to the diversion. Both women were arrested by the Denver Police Department.
A Southwest Airlines flight from New Orleans to Houston faced a delay when an alleged drunk woman refused to leave the plane upon request. Authorities had to intervene and remove the passenger, identified as Kamaryn Gibson, who was charged with multiple offenses, including disturbing the peace and battery on a police officer.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, a woman claiming to be pregnant attacked a Spirit Airlines employee after being prevented from boarding. Que Maria Scott was charged with disorderly conduct for her involvement in the fight. Witnesses reported that Scott threatened the victim and physically assaulted her.
These incidents highlight the growing problem of unruly passengers on flights. The increase in such incidents can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the changing dynamics of the airline industry and a decline in experienced and customer service-oriented staff. The disregard for rules and authority exhibited by unruly passengers reflects a broader societal issue of self-centered and self-indulgent behavior.
It is crucial for airlines and authorities to address this problem to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Strict enforcement of regulations, enhanced training for flight attendants, and clear consequences for unruly behavior are necessary steps to curb this trend. Passengers must also be reminded of their responsibility to adhere to rules and treat airline staff with respect.
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