Ryanair Calls for Alcohol Limits at Airports to Prevent Disruptions
Low-cost airline Ryanair has called for European authorities to introduce a cap on alcohol consumption at airports, limiting passengers to two alcoholic drinks before boarding. The airline argues that excessive drinking at airports often leads to unruly passenger behavior, which can jeopardize safety and disrupt flight operations.
On January 13, 2025, Ryanair issued a statement urging the EU to take action. “We fail to understand why passengers at airports are not limited to two alcoholic drinks, using their boarding pass in the same way duty-free sales are regulated,” a spokesperson said. The airline emphasized that such a policy would enhance safety and improve the travel experience for passengers and crew.
Highlighting Costly Flight Disruptions
Ryanair pointed to a specific incident in April 2024, where a Dublin-to-Lanzarote flight was diverted to Porto due to a disruptive passenger. The individual, who was reportedly intoxicated, was removed from the aircraft and arrested. As a result of the diversion, over 160 passengers were forced to stay overnight at Porto Airport (OPO), with accommodation and meal costs fully covered by the airline.
The disruption caused by the incident required Ryanair to arrange a replacement aircraft and crew for the delayed return flight. The airline reported the total cost of the diversion at €15,350 ($15,670), which included:
- Excess fuel: €800 ($816)
- Overnight accommodation: €7,000 ($7,146)
- Porto Airport landing/handling fees: €2,500 ($2,552)
- Loss of inflight sales: €750 ($765)
- Replacement crew costs: €1,800 ($1,837)
- Legal fees to date: €2,500 ($2,552)
Legal Challenges and Broader Concerns
Ryanair has initiated civil proceedings against the disruptive passenger to recover costs but expressed frustration with Portuguese legal authorities. The case was transferred to Ireland, as both the passenger and the aircraft are Irish, further complicating efforts to address the issue.
The airline also noted that such incidents are not isolated and called on European governments to take stronger measures against disruptive passengers. Ryanair emphasized that the absence of airport alcohol limits is a significant contributor to these problems, particularly during flight delays when passengers often overconsume.
Proposed Solutions
Ryanair has long implemented restrictions on alcohol sales during flights, especially when dealing with disruptive passenger cases. The airline is now advocating for similar measures at airports, requiring boarding passes to track and limit alcohol purchases.
“This policy would result in safer and better passenger behavior on board aircraft and create a safer travel experience across Europe,” Ryanair’s spokesperson reiterated.
As air travel continues to rebound post-pandemic, the airline urges authorities to prioritize passenger and crew safety by addressing alcohol consumption at airports.
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