Airlines warn of 'zero tolerance' approach as unruly behaviour soars

Unruly behaviour is regularly forcing planes to make diversions, which causes passenger disruption and delays. File picture: Larry Cummins

Airlines have issued a stark warning they will crack down on bad behaviour on flights, as they said they would adopt a “zero tolerance” approach this summer.

The industry said there had been a three-fold increase in passenger “unruly behaviour” between 2019 and 2023, with more frequent instances of intoxicated passengers, aggressive or inappropriate behaviour, and not following the directions of cabin crew.