Vaping on board is among ‘worrying’ increase in ‘unruly’ passenger incidents

A new report by global airline body, International Air Transport Association (IATA), has found there has been a “worrying” increase in air rage incidents.

The data revealed that the number of incidents involving unruly air passengers rose by nearly a third last year.

Vaping was one of the key causes of incidents, with passengers often attempting to use their vape in the aircraft cabin or toilet.

Although passengers might try to bring a vape on the plane, it’s illegal to use one during the flight.

Tourists can pack a vape in their hand luggage but are not allowed to charge or use it during the flight.

READ MORE: Banned items in hold luggage on UK airlines

Other common bad behaviour including passengers refusing to fasten their seatbelt when required, failing to store baggage and drinking alcohol onboard.

For every 568 flights in 2022, there was one incident of bad behaviour, a significant rise from every 835 flights in 2021.

IATA deputy director-general, Conrad Clifford, said: “The increasing trend of unruly passenger incidents is worrying.

“Passengers and crew are entitled to a safe and hassle-free experience on board. For that, passengers must comply with crew instructions.

“While our professional crews are well trained to manage unruly passenger scenarios, it is unacceptable that rules in place for everyone’s safety are disobeyed by a small but persistent minority of passengers.”

He added that there was no excuse for not following the instructions of the aircraft’s flight attendants.

The airline body is calling for more countries to prosecute passengers who cause disruption on flights.

Clifford said the IATA made “no apology” for “seeking to crack down” on passengers’ bad behaviour.

A representative for Unite confirmed that the figures would “ring too true” for staff working in the airline industry.