Ryanair is taking legal action against a disruptive passenger, seeking €15,000 (£12,000) in damages, as part of its intensified efforts to curb unruly behaviour on flights.
The incident, which occurred last year, forced a flight from Dublin to Lanzarote to make an unscheduled stop in Porto, Portugal. The diversion caused significant disruption for the 160 passengers onboard, who faced an overnight delay and lost a full day of their holiday.
The airline condemned the passenger’s actions as “inexcusable” and “completely unacceptable.” Ryanair stated that the damages sought cover costs for overnight accommodation, passenger expenses and landing fees incurred due to the disruption.
Announcing its “major clampdown” on disruptive behavior, Ryanair criticised the impact such actions have on other passengers. “It is unacceptable that families and friends heading for a relaxing holiday suffer unnecessary delays due to one individual’s behaviour,” the airline stated. The company reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful travel environment for all passengers and crew.
The lawsuit comes amid broader concerns about unruly passenger conduct. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary recently expressed support for a two-drink limit on flights, provided the same restrictions apply to airport bars.
Speaking to Sky News, O’Leary highlighted a “spike” in disruptive incidents, particularly on flights to party destinations like Ibiza, attributing much of the problem to alcohol consumption at airports. “If passengers are drunk on board, we don’t serve them alcohol, but the root issue starts at the airport,” he noted. Ryanair’s actions signal its determination to address this growing challenge.