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What are the common examples of unruly airline passenger behaviour?

Last updated on June 14, 2023

Flight disruptions due to unruly passenger behaviour can be a major source of inconvenience and frustration for both airline employees and other passengers. The major offenders of unruly passenger behaviour generally include passengers who behave in a disruptive, dangerous, or aggressive manner. Such occurrences can range from smoking in the cabin or lavatories, failing to fasten their seatbelts, consuming their own alcohol on board, exceeding the carry-on baggage allowed, to loud or offensive language.

Smoking in the Cabin

Smoking of any kind, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes and puff devices, is strictly prohibited on flights for the safety and health of passengers and airline employees. Such acts of smoking generally result in a swift warning from the cabin crew and a fine from the airline. In some cases, unruly behaviour due to smoking can result in a flight delay or even full flight cancellation.

Failure to Fasten Seatbelts

It is an absolute must for passengers to fasten their seatbelts whenever the “Fasten Seatbelts” sign is turned on or they are instructed to do so. When passengers fail to follow this simple safety instruction, they may be required to leave the aircraft and pay for their own delayed flight compensation.

Exceeding the Carry-On Baggage Allowance

In an effort to minimise overcrowding in the overhead compartments, most airlines have set carry-on baggage allowance to one item per passenger. If the number of items carried on the flight exceeds this allowance, the airline reserves the right to stow away the excess items in the cargo hold and charge an additional fee. This is often considered unruly behaviour and should be avoided if possible. In summary, the most common cases of unruly passenger behaviour on board flights are smoking in the cabin or lavatories, failing to fasten seatbelts when instructed, exceeding the carry-on baggage allowance, and consuming own alcohol. Such acts can cause flight delays, full flight cancellations, as well as airline fines and previously mentioned, delayed flight compensation. It is important for passengers to understand and abide by airline regulations to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for all.

Ultimately, when you are familiar with air passenger rights and believe you may be entitled to delayed or cancelled flight compensation, find out which best flight compensation companies can help you. You may also fill out the claim form and one of the agencies will check your flight and take your case.