A British couple, Bradley Smith and Antonia Sullivan, faced legal consequences after being caught performing an explicit act on an EasyJet flight. The incident occurred on March 3, 2023, during their return from Tenerife, Spain, and has since led to a court hearing in Bristol. The couple was fined and ordered to complete community service after admitting to public indecency.
The Incident: Inappropriate Behavior in Public View
The couple was on a 7 am flight from Tenerife to Bristol when multiple passengers witnessed their inappropriate behavior. Bradley Smith, 22, was seated in 16A, while his girlfriend Antonia Sullivan, 20, was in 16B. A fellow passenger seated next to them and a mother-daughter duo behind them reported the couple’s explicit act to the cabin crew.
Prosecutor Maree Doyle told the Bristol magistrates’ court that the couple had placed coats over Bradley’s lap and began engaging in inappropriate behavior shortly after takeoff. Despite attempts to conceal their actions, the movements were clearly visible to nearby passengers, prompting complaints.
Confrontation and Escort Off the Flight
When confronted by the cabin crew, Antonia initially denied the accusations, claiming she was merely rubbing her boyfriend’s leg. However, the couple was later escorted off the flight by police upon landing in Bristol. Both were questioned regarding their behavior, leading to charges of outraging public decency.
Court Hearing: Guilty Pleas and Sentencing
At their recent court appearance, Bradley and Antonia pleaded guilty to committing a sexual act in a public place. The court ordered the couple to compensate the three witnesses who reported their behavior, with each receiving £100 (approximately ₹11,000). Bradley was also sentenced to complete 300 hours of community service, while Antonia was ordered to complete 270 hours.
Judge’s Remarks
Judge Lynne Matthews reprimanded the couple for their blatant disregard for fellow passengers. Addressing their behavior, the judge questioned their sense of entitlement and lack of consideration for others, particularly a child who was seated behind them and witnessed the act.
“You had no regard for the feelings of other passengers,” Judge Matthews said. “Who do you think you are, and what right do you think entitled you to behave in that way in full view of people on that flight?”
The incident has sparked discussions about appropriate behavior in public spaces, with both Bradley Smith and Antonia Sullivan facing the consequences of their actions. The court’s ruling serves as a reminder that public decency laws apply even in high-stress situations like air travel.