Ryanair has initiated legal action against a passenger accused of causing significant disruption on a flight from Dublin, Ireland to Lanzarote.
The airline is seeking £12,500 in damages to cover costs after the flight was forced to divert to Porto, Portugal.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ryanair confirmed it had filed proceedings against the individual, describing the behaviour on the April flight as “inexcusable” and “completely unacceptable.”
The airline emphasized its commitment to addressing unruly passenger conduct to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone on board.
According to Ryanair, the disruption resulted in an unscheduled diversion to Porto, leading to an overnight delay and affecting 160 passengers.
The incident reportedly caused unnecessary disruption, with passengers losing a full day of their holiday.
The damages being pursued by the airline aim to recover expenses for overnight accommodations and other costs incurred due to the delay.
Highlighting the incident as part of a broader effort to tackle disruptive behaviour, a spokesperson stated on the airline’s website, “It is unacceptable that passengers – many of whom are heading away with family or friends to enjoy a relaxing summer holiday – are suffering unnecessary disruption and reduced holiday time as a result of one unruly passenger’s behaviour.”
Ryanair expressed hopes that the civil proceedings in the Irish courts would serve as a deterrent to future incidents.
The identity of the passenger involved has not been disclosed.
Under EU regulations, passengers are entitled to compensation for flights within the EU that are delayed by three hours or more or cancelled.
The rules also mandate free hotel accommodation, transport to and from the airport, and complimentary meals and refreshments if an overnight stay becomes necessary.
The incident follows a similar case in 2020 when a passenger who disrupted a Ryanair flight to Athens was convicted by a Greek court.
The individual received a five-month suspended sentence and was fined €400 ($412).
