Unruly Passengers on Planes: An Alarming Trend

 The surge in "unruly passengers" on planes this year has become a matter of great concern. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have already been 983 reports of such incidents in the United States alone. These incidents, ranging from fights to bomb threats and tantrums, have seen a significant increase, coinciding with the rise in travel during the summer months.

Rise in Incidents and FAA Statistics

As the travel industry gradually recovers from the impact of the pandemic, the return to pre-pandemic flight levels has not been without its challenges. The FAA, using their data, has reported a nearly 50% increase in conflicts between passengers during flights compared to the levels observed before the COVID-19 era.

The FAA's latest data, as of July 9 this year, reveals that the number of reports concerning "unruly passengers" has reached a staggering 983. These incidents include alarming behavior such as bomb threats, violence towards fellow passengers and flight attendants, and even adult temper tantrums. It's important to note that these figures do not account for other disruptions, including equipment-related issues. With the surge in summer travel, the frequency of such events has only amplified.

Noteworthy Incidents Involving Unruly Passengers

Let's take a closer look at some of the most shocking episodes involving unruly passengers aboard planes this year:

1. Delta Passenger's Slide Exit

One Delta passenger on Flight 1714 from Los Angeles International Airport shocked everyone by opening the plane's door and deploying the emergency slide just minutes before takeoff. After sliding down onto a baggage cart, the man was detained by airport crew until the arrival of local police. The incident resulted in the delay and inconvenience of other passengers, who had to deplane and board another aircraft to reach their original destination of Seattle.

2. United Passenger's Violent Outburst

During the boarding process at San Francisco International Airport, a United passenger became aggressive and started throwing punches at other passengers and a flight attendant after being asked to vacate someone else's assigned seat. Despite attempts to restrain him, the man managed to reach and open the emergency exit. Fortunately, he was swiftly subdued before any harm was done. Videos captured by fellow passengers showcased the chaotic scene, with concerned passengers urging him to stop. The individual who initially requested the seat change noted that the man was slurring his speech.

3. Asiana Airlines' Mid-Air Door Opening

On an Asiana Airlines flight attempting to land in South Korea, a passenger unexpectedly opened one of the emergency exits while the aircraft was still approximately 700 feet in the air. Videos taken by other passengers show the partially opened door and the powerful rush of wind inside the cabin. The individual responsible for this action did not appear to be intoxicated, according to local officials. The incident led to minor breathing issues for 12 people, including eight children, who were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

4. Southwest Flight's Bomb Threat

Passengers on a Southwest flight from Las Vegas to Hawaii received an alarming AirDropped photo suggesting the presence of a bomb onboard. Consequently, the plane was forced to land at Oakland International Airport less than two hours after departure. Law enforcement authorities conducted a thorough search of the aircraft, luggage, and personal belongings while passengers waited anxiously at the airport. Fortunately, no explosives were found. This incident adds to the list of distressing occurrences this year, which have included inappropriate jokes related to bombs and plane crashes shared among passengers via AirDrop.

5. Bomb Threat and Diversion on an Alaska Airlines Flight

An Alaska Airlines flight experienced a severe disruption when a passenger handed a threatening note to a flight attendant, demanding the plane's diversion from its intended destination, Seattle. The note explicitly warned of detonating a bomb if the plane were to land in Seattle. The aircraft made an unscheduled landing in Spokane, Washington, where the individual responsible was detained and interviewed by law enforcement. Subsequent investigations revealed no presence of explosive materials. If convicted of hoax charges, the passenger could face a sentence of up to five years in prison.

6. Unsanitary Conditions on an Air France Flight

During a flight from Paris to Toronto, a journalist and passenger named Habib Battah discovered an appalling sight in front of his seat: a substantial patch of blood and feces on the floor. Battah immediately reported the incident to the Air France attendants, who provided him with wipes but insisted he remain seated due to a fully occupied flight. Battah's belongings, as well as his two cats' carriers, were soiled by the fluid. According to the airline staff, another passenger had experienced a medical issue causing the contamination on a previous flight. Battah expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that he received a $500 voucher and a cat wash instead of a refund for the disturbing incident.

7. Meal Dispute Leads to Plane Diversion

During a United flight from Houston to Amsterdam, an unruly passenger intoxicated and dissatisfied with the unavailability of his desired meal caused the plane to make an unexpected landing in Chicago. The FAA classified the passenger as a "threat level 1," indicating disruptive behavior perceived as suspicious or threatening by others. Upon landing, law enforcement personnel removed the passenger from the aircraft, allowing the flight to resume its course to Amsterdam.

8. Gate Agent Cancels Teenager's Ticket on American Airlines

A gate agent at American Airlines canceled the ticket of a teenager traveling alone when suspicions arose about him attempting to "skiplag" his way to Charlotte, North Carolina, instead of his ticketed destination, New York City. The family had booked the ticket using the service Skiplagged, which offers cheaper fares by utilizing layovers. It was their first encounter with a ticket cancellation due to skiplagging, unaware that the practice is prohibited by most airlines, including American. American Airlines emphasized that purchasing a ticket with no intention of flying all the designated flights, solely for fare reduction, is a violation of their terms and conditions. The airline addressed the family's concerns and engaged with them through their Customer Relations team.

Conclusion

The increasing number of unruly passengers on planes is a cause for alarm. These incidents disrupt the safety and well-being of other passengers and flight crew, posing potential risks to everyone aboard. Authorities, airlines, and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to address these issues and ensure the security of air travel. Passengers are encouraged to maintain a respectful and cooperative attitude during their flights to help create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.