Unruly Passengers

What this relates to:

International aviation authorities such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have strict regulations to address unruly passenger behaviour, and airlines follow a zero-tolerance policy. Unruly passengers on board an aircraft engage in disruptive, violent or non-compliant behaviour that interferes with the safe and orderly operation of the flight. This can range from minor disturbances to serious threats that endanger the crew, passengers, and aircraft. Examples include refusing to follow crew instructions (e.g. not wearing a seatbelt, ignoring the smoking ban), engaging in acts of verbal or physical aggression toward crew members or other passengers, becoming intoxicated and behaving disruptively and making real or hoax threats (including bomb threats or false claims of danger). Possible consequences are fines and legal prosecution, financial liability for costs incurred due to delays or diversions, and permanent bans from airlines.

Example:

A passenger is caught smoking a cigarette in the cabin or toilet. He is advised by the cabin crew that this is not allowed and is asked for his personal details and passport. He refuses to give his details and becomes very aggressive and violent. The pilots inform air traffic control that the police will be needed on arrival. After landing, the passenger is taken into custody by the police. The passenger can expect to be prosecuted and fined.

Remarks on the 2024 figures:

There were 1,730 incidents reported in 2024. In 432 cases, airlines such as Swiss, Edelweiss, easyJet Switzerland, Helvetic Airways and Chair reported passengers refusing to fasten their seatbelts or stow their luggage correctly, despite being asked to do so. Other inappropriate behaviour included passengers’ verbal disputes with crew members or other passengers (360 cases), ignoring the smoking ban (308 cases), excessive alcohol or drug consumption (201 cases) and unauthorised consumption of their own alcohol (136). In almost 100 cases, there was even violence against the flight crew or between passengers. Another 80 cases concerned violations of animal transportation requirements.
Last year, the FOCA imposed 142 fines on disruptive passengers. The fines usually range from CHF 400 to 1,000. However, enforcement is often not straightforward as many passengers are difficult to identify after their return abroad.

Last modification 14.05.2025

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