Ryanair Takes Legal Action Against Passenger for Flight Disruption, Seeks £12,500 in Damages.
Ryanair has launched legal proceedings against a passenger accused of causing severe disruption on a flight from Dublin to Lanzarote, seeking £12,500 in damages. This legal move follows a significant diversion that occurred during the flight last April, which forced the aircraft to land in Porto, Portugal. The airline aims to recover costs related to the diversion, which caused inconvenience to both the passengers and the airline.
Legal Action and Compensation Claims
Ryanair formally announced the lawsuit on Wednesday, emphasizing the passenger’s behavior as "inexcusable" and "entirely unacceptable." The airline has stated its commitment to taking decisive action against unruly passenger behavior to ensure the safety, comfort, and overall experience of all passengers. The airline’s spokesperson pointed out that disruptions caused by one individual not only affect the person involved but also significantly impact the experience of other travelers, many of whom were on holiday.
The airline is seeking £12,500 to cover expenses incurred during the diversion, including the cost of overnight accommodations and other associated costs for the 160 affected passengers. Ryanair’s legal proceedings are aimed at reinforcing the importance of maintaining order and safety during flights.
Disruption and Delay
Ryanair's decision to divert the flight to Porto was prompted by the passenger’s actions, which led to an overnight delay and a full day of disruption for the other passengers. As a result, many travelers lost valuable holiday time. The airline stated that this was a clear example of how one passenger's behavior can result in unnecessary consequences for others.
In its statement, Ryanair highlighted that the damages being pursued are essential to compensate for the extra costs incurred, including accommodation, meals, and transport, all of which were provided to the affected passengers in line with EU regulations. Ryanair also mentioned that such disruptions are a setback for families and holiday-goers who expect a smooth, hassle-free experience.
EU Regulations and Passengers' Rights
According to EU regulations, passengers on flights within the EU are entitled to compensation in the event of flight cancellations or delays lasting three hours or more. When such delays necessitate an overnight stay, airlines are required to provide hotel accommodations and transport between the hotel and airport. Additionally, passengers are entitled to complimentary meals and refreshments during such delays.
Ryanair has stressed that the legal proceedings against this passenger are part of a larger effort to clamp down on disruptive behavior. By taking this case to court, the airline hopes to deter similar incidents in the future and reinforce the message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Previous Cases of Disruptive Passengers
Ryanair’s initiative comes after a similar case involving a disruptive passenger on a flight to Athens in 2020. In that case, the passenger was convicted by a Greek court and received a five-month suspended prison sentence, along with a €400 ($412) fine. The airline hopes that its current legal actions will send a clear message to potential offenders about the consequences of disruptive behavior.
