#722 Is Alcohol Turning Flights Into Flying Nightclubs?

On this episode of the podcast, Niall talks to callers about growing calls to ban alcohol in airports and on planes after Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said drunken passengers are causing mayhem in the skies.For years airlines have dealt with aggressive passengers, abuse directed at cabin crew, mid air fights, emergency landings and diverted flights, all linked to excessive drinking before boarding or during flights.Michael O’Leary says the problem is getting worse and believes airports and airlines need to take stronger action against what many now call “pre flight binge drinking culture”.But would banning alcohol in airports and on planes go too far?Many callers argue that the vast majority of passengers enjoy a quiet pint or glass of wine responsibly before a holiday and should not be punished because of a minority who can’t handle their drink.Others say flying has become unbearable, with loud drunken behaviour, arguments, intimidation and anti social behaviour becoming far too common on flights across Europe.Some even compared it to smoking bans introduced years ago.Smoking was once seen as part of the flying experience until it became clear it negatively affected other passengers.So should alcohol now face similar restrictions?Niall asks:Is it finally time to ban alcohol in airports and on planes?Or is this another example of punishing responsible people because of a badly behaved minority?The callers strongly disagree.