Why Flights Are Diverted Over Drunk Passengers

Why Flights Are Diverted Over Drunk Passengers

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has called for a ban on early morning alcohol sales at airport bars to combat a surge in disruptive passenger behavior. O'Leary argued that airport bars should be subject to the same licensing laws as local pubs, questioning why passengers are served beer as early as 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM. He highlighted that Ryanair is now forced to divert nearly one flight per day due to aggressive or drunken travelers, a significant increase from roughly one diversion per week a decade ago. Key Proposals & Claims Restricted Hours: Airports should only serve alcohol within standard legal licensing hours. Two-Drink Limit: O'Leary reiterated his long-standing call for a mandatory two-drink maximum per person at airport bars. Airline Impact: He accused airports of "profiteering" from alcohol sales while "exporting the problem" of unruly passengers to the airlines. Airports in the UK currently operate under unique exemptions that allow them to serve alcohol 24 hours a day, unlike standard high-street venues.