Michael O’Leary said violent and anti-social outbursts on flights are on the increase
Ryanair’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, has called for alcohol limits at airports to combat a rise in unruly behaviour on flights as he explained a tough new baggage rule. The Ryanair boss says passengers should be limited to two drinks per journey to tackle what he says is an increase in antisocial conduct and violence.
Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Mr O’Leary said violent incidents are happening weekly, often fuelled by alcohol, particularly when mixed with other substances. “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 33,000 feet,” he stated, adding that it’s challenging for airlines to identify drunk individuals at the gate, especially when they’re boarding in groups.
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“As long as they can stand up and shuffle they will get through. Then when the plane takes off we see the misbehaviour.”
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He also highlighted that crew members and fellow passengers have become targets, with delays exacerbating the issue by extending drinking times at airports. “In the old days, people who drank too much would eventually fall over or fall asleep. But now those passengers are also on tablets and powder,” he added.
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“It’s the mix. You get much more aggressive behaviour that becomes very difficult to manage.”, reports Bristol Live.
Mr O’Leary revealed that Ryanair staff now search bags before passengers are allowed to board flights to Ibiza, one of the “party destinations” he believes are most affected. He said the problem also includes some of the Greek islands.