Rules are in place across more than 20 UK airports
Travellers could be denied boarding to flights if they break a certain rule, as part of a major campaign. London Stansted issued a warning on its X account this weekend, ahead of what is anticipated to be a busy travel period this Christmas.
Those departing from Stansted, as well as many other airports, are being urged to “fly responsibly” or risk “paying the price” through a Government-supported scheme. Ahead of the festive period, the One Too Many initiative is alerting holidaymakers that overindulging in alcohol at airports can result in serious repercussions.
Warning signs read: “One too many is all it takes to ruin a holiday, cause a delay, land YOU in jail, cancel a flight, [and/or] divert a plane”, with one recently posted by Stansted’s X account. The message adds: “Did you know that if you are deemed unfit to fly, you may be denied boarding and you could face up to two years in jail for disrupting a flight? Travel responsibly this Christmas.”
Passengers who cause disruption on flights could also find themselves hit with a lifetime airline ban, or fined up to £80,000 should their conduct force an aircraft to change course mid-journey. The One Too Many campaign is in force at more than 20 UK airports including London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle International and Bristol.
Karen Dee, Chief Executive of the Airport Operators Association, said: “UK airports are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers. We urge travellers to enjoy their journeys responsibly and not ruin their holidays or the holidays of others.
“Airports will continue to monitor and act against any disruptive behaviour to ensure everyone’s safety.” The One Too Many initiative was first introduced in 2018, receiving support from the government, including endorsements from the Department for Transport and the Home Office.