Ryanair vows to sue unruly passengers for disruption costs

In a recent announcement, Michael O'Leary, the CEO of Ryanair, addressed the concerning trend of disruptive behavior among passengers on their flights. He highlighted that between two and three flights each week are currently being diverted due to poor behavior, which is a significant issue considering the airline operates approximately 3,500 daily flights. The airline has taken legal action against passengers, seeking compensation for costs incurred during diversions. O'Leary pointed out that a past incident cost Ryanair £12,500 when a flight had to land early in Porto. O'Leary also expressed his views on alcohol consumption in airports, suggesting that current regulations allow excessive drinking before flights. He emphasized the need for a sensible approach to alcohol consumption, proposing a limit of two alcoholic beverages. He believed that the current lack of restrictions leads to a poor experience for other passengers. O'Leary criticized airports for their approach to alcohol sales, especially during flight delays, stating that they prioritize profit over passenger safety. The discussion surrounding the potential expansion of Heathrow Airport, specifically the proposed addition of a third runway, also came under scrutiny. O'Leary expressed his disinterest in operating from Heathrow, citing its operational inefficiency as a key factor. He indicated that even if the airport were free to use, Ryanair would not take advantage of it due to the excessive turnaround times that would hinder their operations. He argued that there are numerous underutilized airports that Ryanair could expand into, indicating a need for better airport management overall. In light of recent incidences disrupting flights and the ongoing conversation about alcohol consumption and airport operations, Ryanair is signaling a firm stance on maintaining a safe environment for all passengers. By pursuing legal action against disruptive behavior and lobbying for better alcohol regulations, the airline aims to improve the flying experience. O'Leary's remarks highlight an ongoing challenge in the aviation industry as airlines balance profitability with ensuring passenger safety and comfort. His proposals for alcohol limits and operational efficiency are topics that demand attention for the future of air travel.