Numbers of disruptive air passengers still high

The number of disruptive passengers on board flights has not dropped in the last few years, despite efforts by the industry.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority has revealed that more than 326 incidents of disruptive passenger behaviour were reported in the first 10 months of the year.

The majority of these were alcohol-related and frequently involved abusive and sometimes violent behaviour.

The number mirrors the full-year figures for 2016 and 2017, when more than 400 incidents were reported.

Numbers have risen dramatically since 2013 when only 98 incidents were reported.

Airlines such as Jet2 have clamped down on badly behaved passengers in a bid to stem the number of incidents. It has repeatedly called for limits on the amount of alcohol passengers can drink before boarding a flight.

With 4.5m passengers set to jet off from the UK during the Christmas period, period, the CAA is reiterating its call for airlines and enforcement agencies to make better use of laws already in place.

Director Richard Stephenson said: "Everyone wants their holiday flights to be enjoyable and trouble-free this Christmas. Drunken and abusive behaviour on an aeroplane is totally unacceptable. Not only does it upset everyone else, but it can also jeopardise flight safety.

"Criminal charges should be brought against offenders more often to act as a deterrent – passengers need to know they will face the legal consequences of disorderly behaviour."

Those found guilty can be jailed for up to five years for endangering the safety of an aircraft and can face fines and compensation costs.