Ryanair CEO says curb airport drinks to two to end in-flight violence

DUBLIN, Ireland: Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has proposed limiting alcohol consumption at airports to reduce rising incidents of disorderly conduct on flights.

O'Leary suggests restricting passengers to a maximum of two drinks per journey to help curb the increasing antisocial behavior and violence in the air.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, O'Leary highlighted that violent outbursts are happening every week, often fueled by alcohol and other substances. "We don't want to stop people from having a drink," O'Leary said. "But while we prohibit drink-driving, we still allow intoxicated individuals to board planes and fly at 33,000 feet."

He pointed out that it is challenging for airlines to spot inebriated passengers at the boarding gate, especially when people are boarding in groups. "As long as they can stand and shuffle, they will get through. But once the plane takes off, that's when the trouble starts."

O'Leary noted that flight crews and other passengers are often targeted in these incidents, and delays exacerbate the problem by allowing more time for drinking at the airport. "In the past, those who drank too much would eventually pass out. Now, we see a mix of alcohol, tablets, and other substances leading to more aggressive behavior, which is much harder to manage," he explained.

To combat this issue, Ryanair has implemented measures such as searching passengers' bags before boarding flights to popular party destinations like Ibiza and certain Greek islands, which are particularly problematic.