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A labor organization has expressed alarm over the rise in alcohol-fueled fights on airplanes, labeling these incidents of “air rage” as unacceptable.
The recent conflicts in the air on two Ryanair flights from Edinburgh to Tenerife sparked conversation about the issue of alcohol and aggression during air travel. Law enforcement intervened on both flights to remove the unruly passengers, causing one flight to change course and land in Porto, Portugal due to a heated dispute on board.
The European Union Air Safety Agency reports that disruptive and intoxicated passengers cause approximately 1,000 flights per year to be diverted, resulting in significant additional expenses for the airlines most affected.
Labor unions are becoming increasingly worried about the safety of flight attendants.
Pat McIlvogue, an industrial representative for the Unite union, expressed to BBC Scotland that he is greatly troubled by the increase in incidents of anti-social behavior and violent threats towards airport employees and flight staff.
It is completely unacceptable for workers to be confronted with verbal or physical abuse, and this issue needs to be addressed immediately.
The drinking culture in Britain has made it commonplace to consume alcohol at the airport as early as 5am.
Simon Calder from The Independent noted that many travelers see having a drink while waiting for their flight, which could potentially be delayed, as a crucial aspect of their vacation.
Drinking excessively while on board an aircraft is considered illegal, and passengers may face fines of up to £5,000 if they are found endangering the safety of the flight due to intoxication.
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Security measures, such as screening passengers for alcohol consumption and using security seals on duty-free alcohol purchases, may be implemented for departures. Additionally, certain airlines, including Saudia (the official airline of Saudi Arabia), have chosen to prohibit alcohol entirely.
A veteran member of the cabin crew for a low-cost airline informed The Independent: “Travelers must comprehend that consuming excessive alcohol before boarding will not lead to a pleasant beginning to their vacation.”
Source: independent.co.uk
