• Ryanair proposes a limit of two alcoholic drinks at European airports.
• The airline is pursuing legal action against a passenger for causing a costly flight diversion.
• Ryanair asserts that limiting alcohol sales could enhance passenger safety and behavior.
• Disruptive passenger incidents have increased, prompting calls for stricter regulations on alcohol sales.
• The airline emphasizes that similar limits should apply at airports as at duty-free shops.

Ryanair has made a compelling case for the introduction of limits on alcoholic drinks sold at airports across Europe. This request comes as the budget airline continues its legal proceedings against a passenger it accuses of causing a disruptive and costly flight diversion last April. The airline is seeking over €15,000 (approximately $15,324) in damages related to this incident, which occurred during a flight from Dublin to Lanzarote. According to reports from The Guardian and AP News, the flight was diverted to Porto, Portugal, after the passenger reportedly exhibited “inexcusable behaviour,” leading to significant expenses for the airline, such as extra fuel, lodging for passengers and crew, and legal fees.

Ryanair has pointed out that while airlines already place restrictions on alcohol sales during flights, there are currently no limits on how much a passenger can consume at airports. In its statement, the airline stated, “We fail to understand why passengers at airports are not limited to two alcoholic drinks (using their boarding pass in exactly the same way they limit duty-free sales), as this would result in safer and better passenger behaviour on board aircraft, and a safer travel experience for passengers and crews all over Europe.” The airline believes that such measures could curb excessive drinking, especially during delays, which have been associated with rising incidents of intoxication and unruly behavior.

Concerns about disruptive incidents on flights have surged, with a spokesperson from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency acknowledging a rise in the number and severity of such cases since 2020. Globally, data from the International Air Transport Association showed that in 2023, there was one disruptive incident for every 480 flights, an increase from one for every 568 flights the previous year. Although the number of incidents involving alcohol was not specified, this trend has raised alarms among aviation regulators and airlines alike, calling for measures to enforce responsible alcohol service and consumption.

As Ryanair pursues comprehensive legal action against this passenger, the company reiterates that these circumstances underscore a broader need for regulatory changes regarding alcohol consumption in airport environments. The ongoing situation highlights the challenges airlines face in managing passenger conduct and ensuring the safety of all on board.

For more information, you can read the full articles on The Guardian and AP News.