How Is Ryanair’s Push For Alcohol Limits Linked To Preventing Flight Disruptions?

Alcohol Restrictions

Europe’s largest airline, Ryanair, has called on the European Union to set a two-drink limit on passengers at airports. The airline suggests using boarding passes to enforce this restriction, similar to how duty-free sales are controlled. This proposal is intended to curb the growing problem of intoxicated passengers disrupting flights.

 

Inciting Incident

This is after Ryanair filed a civil case against a former passenger who, with his antics, made it necessary to divert the flight from Dublin to Lanzarote to Porto, Portugal, last year. The actions of the passenger meant that 160 passengers were delayed overnight and resulted in significant financial loss to the airline. The damages account is at Ryanair, suing for €15,000, which includes accommodation at a hotel, landing fees, and replacing the crew.

 

Financial Costs of Disruptions

The airline elaborated on the financial cost of the incident, which included €7,000 for hotel costs, €2,500 for landing and handling fees, €1,800 for crew replacement, €800 for excess fuel, €750 for lost inflight sales, and €2,500 for legal fees. Ryanair pointed out that these costs were avoidable and directly resulted from the passenger’s misconduct.

 

Increase in Unruly Passenger Incidents

Cases of unruly passengers are growing worldwide. According to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, incidents of this kind have not only increased in numbers but have also become more violent since 2020. The Federal Aviation Administration in the United States registered 2,102 cases of unruly passengers during the year 2023. In total, they imposed a fine of $7.5 million. India, too, follows the same pattern. Increasing numbers of complaints for non-compliance, verbal abuse, and intoxication can be seen here.

 

IATA Stand on Passenger Behaviour

The International Air Transport Association reported an increase in disruptive incidents, with one incident occurring on every 480 flights in 2023. IATA Deputy Director General Conrad Clifford stated that people should be respectful and supported efforts to address the misconduct of a few travellers to provide a comfortable travel experience for all.