A Ryanair passenger was caught on camera being escorted off an aircraft by UK authorities after the airline crew publicly called him out for smoking in the restroom.
The incident occurred just 20 minutes after Tuesday’s flight from Palma de Mallorca to Manchester Airport. The smell of smoke emanating from the toilet prompted a flight attendant to act. The crew collected the passenger’s information and then announced it to the entire plane, publicly exposing his misconduct.
A fellow passenger expressed satisfaction with the crew’s decision to publicly shame the individual, emphasizing that anyone who puts the lives of 180 passengers at risk by smoking should accept the appropriate consequences. The incident reportedly displeased and frightened many other passengers, including the man and his two daughters, aged seven and 10.
Video footage captured the embarrassed man, dressed in a tee shirt, shorts, a baseball cap, and beach shoes, being escorted off the plane onto the tarmac upon arrival at Manchester Airport.
In response to the incident, a representative from Ryanair said that the crew had requested police assistance in advance after discovering the passenger’s smoking violation onboard. Upon landing, local authorities removed the person from the aircraft. Ryanair clarified that they did not press charges against the passenger.
The incident is a reminder of the strict regulations and consequences of smoking on board an aircraft. The airline industry prioritizes the safety and well-being of all passengers, and any violation of these regulations can lead to significant repercussions for the individuals involved.
Renowned for its budget-friendly fares and minimalistic service, the Ireland-based airline is the largest carrier in Europe. However, in May 2023, it was ranked as the second-lowest-rated airline in Europe, according to a well-known consumer review website.