7 days ago
Marked increase in disruptive behaviour at Dublin Airport
There has been an 80% increase in incidents of disruptive passenger behaviour reported at Dublin Airport so far this year compared to the entire number of incidents recorded in 2024, according to figures from the Irish Aviation Authority.
As the airport prepares for its busiest weekend ever, the aviation industry has launched a campaign to address disruptive behaviour.
In the first five months of this year Dublin Airport garda station has dealt with more than 30 incidents of disruptive passenger behaviour.
That figure is up 80% on the total number of incidents recorded in 2024 and those figures were also up 50% on 2023.
Offensive behaviour, obstruction or assaults on an authorised officer and people intoxicated onboard aircraft have been the most common issues this year.
With more than half a million passengers due to travel through Dublin Airport this weekend, the airline industry has come together to promote an awareness campaign called #Notonmyflight.
Garda Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region Paul Cleary warned these incidents endanger passengers and crew and can also result in delayed flights and missed connections.
"There is no excuse for anti-social or disruptive behaviour.
"Over the past year we have been working with our aviation partners under a joint declaration to address disruptive and dangerous behaviour, and we remain very committed to that.
"While the majority of people travel respectfully, An Garda Síochána is prepared to act where necessary to ensure a safe and secure environment for all who travel through our airports."
Trade union Fórsa's national secretary, Katie Morgan, said unruly passenger behaviour is a crucial health and safety concern for its members.
"We've seen first-hand the effect that some unruly passenger behaviour has had on our members.
"Aviation workers have a right to a safe working environment and to be treated with dignity and respect.
