- The leadership at Ryanair proposes limiting alcohol consumption.
In the battle against disorderly conduct and incidents happening on flights, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary is suggesting a pre-boarding drink restriction. Travelers should be able to purchase a max of two drinks at the airport, according to his statement to the British newspaper "Telegraph". This summer has seen a significant rise in aggression, with weekly incidents.
"It can be tough for airlines to spot drunk individuals at the gate, especially when they're traveling in groups," mentioned O'Leary. "As long as they can walk and move, they board. Trouble usually kicks off once the aircraft takes off."
He doesn't intend to ban alcohol entirely. "We don't let people drive under the influence, yet we keep cramming them onto planes at 33,000 feet," explained the CEO of the Irish low-cost airline.
There are often alcohol-related issues on flights heading to party spots like Ibiza or some Greek islands. Last July, a British tourist was given probation for sexually assaulting a stewardess on a Ryanair flight from Newcastle to Mallorca, after consuming alcohol.
Mixing alcohol with 'pills and powders'
O'Leary attributed the surge in incidents to a mix of alcohol with 'pills and powders' (presumably referring to other drugs like cocaine). However, there are also problems on flights originating from Ireland or Germany.
The worst days are those with numerous delays. "People wait around airports and drink alcohol," said O'Leary. It would be more suitable to pass the time with coffee or tea. "This isn't some alcoholics' retreat," he emphasized. His proposal won't impact the revenue of airport bars, he reassured.
"Despite the proposed drink restriction at the airport, some travelers might still opt to consume alcohol during their vacation, as seen on flights heading to party destinations like Ibiza or Greek islands."
"To prevent escalation of incidents, it would be beneficial for passengers to consider healthier options, such as coffee or tea, instead of alcohol while waiting for delayed flights, to ensure a smoother journey for everyone involved."
