Ryanair, one of Europe’s leading budget airlines, is known for its low-cost flights and widespread accessibility across the continent.
The company has gained a reputation for affordable travel, connecting millions of passengers to popular destinations annually.
However, like other airlines, Ryanair occasionally faces challenges with passenger behavior during flights, which can lead to significant disruptions for everyone on board.
In a recent incident, Ryanair filed a lawsuit in Dublin against a passenger accused of disruptive behavior during an April 2022 flight from Dublin to Lanzarote.
Lost a Full Day of Vacations
The airline is seeking €15,000 in damages to recover expenses incurred when the plane was forced to divert to Porto, Portugal.
Ryanair reported that the behavior was “unforgivable” and caused unnecessary hardship for the 160 passengers on board, according to Hotnews.
The diversion resulted in additional costs for overnight accommodations and disrupted travel plans for many.
Passengers reportedly lost a full day of their vacations due to the delay.
A spokesperson for Ryanair described the incident as “completely unacceptable,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to preventing similar occurrences.
While Ryanair did not disclose specific details of the passenger’s actions, the company stated that this marks the first time it has initiated a civil lawsuit against a passenger in Ireland.
The airline hopes this legal action will deter others from engaging in disruptive behavior during flights.
Ryanair also announced plans for a “major campaign” to address onboard misconduct, reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy.
The airline’s spokesperson explained:
“It is unacceptable for passengers to experience disruptions caused by one individual’s behavior. We intend to take decisive action to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone on board.”
This approach follows a similar case in 2020 when a passenger who disrupted a Ryanair flight to Athens received a suspended sentence and a fine from a Greek court.
Ryanair’s firm stance reflects a growing trend among airlines to combat such issues through legal channels.
