What if disruptive passengers cause delays?

As millions of Brits head off on their summer holidays, travel experts are urging passengers to know their rights if a flight is delayed due to unruly behaviour onboard.

Travel insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk are warning holidaymakers that they may not be entitled to compensation if their flight is disrupted by the actions of other passengers.

This follows the crackdown by budget airline Ryanair, which recently introduced a €500* fine for disruptive behaviour that forces a flight diversion.

In more severe cases, the airline has even pursued over €15,000** in damages from individuals who’ve caused major disruption, which is often linked to alcohol-fuelled incidents or aggression.

Unruly behaviour onboard is becoming an increasing concern. Disruptive passenger incidents in the UK have more than doubled since 2019, rising from approximately 100 incidents per quarter to between 200 and 250.*** 

Data compiled by the Civil Aviation Authority also revealed that the average number of diversions per flight doubled between 2019 and 2023.

But what about the innocent passengers caught up in the chaos?

If a delay is caused by events outside of the airline’s control, like disruptive passengers, it is likely classified as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’ under EU261 regulations – this means the airline is not required to pay compensation.

However, it must still provide essential assistance, including meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary.

Extraordinary circumstances also include bad weather, air traffic restrictions, medical emergencies and technical issues caused by external factors (like bird strikes).

Ian Wilson, Managing Director and travel insurance expert at Tiger.co.uk has commented: “Summer holidays are often a chance for passengers to relax and enjoy the flight, however it’s worrying to see the rising trend of disruptive passengers taking their onboard celebrations too far.  The increase in disturbances onboard is a concern – sometimes linked to alcohol or overexcitement of large groups. Unfortunately, if this behaviour causes a delay, innocent bystanders are unlikely to receive compensation, as the disruption falls outside of the airline’s control.

“Travellers should be mindful that rowdy behaviour doesn’t just risk fines or being offloaded – it can cause major inconvenience for others onboard. It’s something to consider, especially when travelling as a large party. 

“However, having the right travel insurance could soften the blow. While airlines may not compensate for delays beyond their control, specialist travel insurance could offer extra peace of mind, such as travel disruption insurance, which normally covers costs such as missed departures or connections, hotel stays, or alternative transport – travellers need to check their policy details before setting off and review which circumstances are included.”

Tiger.co.uk can help holidaymakers hunt for savings on travel insurance, annual travel insurance, travel insurance for families and even those who need travel insurance for pre-existing conditions. 

References:

*https://corporate.ryanair.com/news/ryanair-introduces-e500-disruptive-passenger-fine-in-major-misconduct-clamp-down/

**https://corporate.ryanair.com/news/ryanair-files-civil-case-against-disruptive-passenger-for-e15000-in-damages/

***https://www.ft.com/content/6a2c6e47-9024-4ea8-8cda-9ead56437c02

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.