Unruly Passenger Complaints Above 3,600, Investigations Record Doubles
Joe Cortez July 28, 2021
Even though the face covering rules have been well established, the Federal Aviation Administration continues to receive and investigate complaints against unruly flyers aboard aircraft. The number of investigations initiated is almost double that of the previous record set in 2004.
While the aviation sector continues to recover at an increased pace, the Federal Aviation Administration continues to receive complaints about bad passenger behavior aboard flights. According to the latest data released by the agency, over 3,600 unruly flyer reports have been submitted since the beginning of 2021.
Number of Investigations in 2021 Nearly Doubles Previous Record
The major issue among flyers continues to be wearing a facemask while traveling. Of the 3,615 complaints sent to the FAA since January 1, 2021, 2,666 of them – or nearly 74 percent – revolve around wearing face coverings on flights. Some of the issues have been caught on smartphone cameras, including one aboard a Spirit Airlines flight and a fight aboard an American Airlines flight arriving at Miami International Airport (MIA).
However, the agency is being very careful about which ones are investigated, and which ultimately result in a fine. Only 17 percent of the cases referred to the FAA end up in an investigation, with around one-in-six resulting in a monetary fine. Still, the number of investigations is nearly double the previous record, set in 2004 when the agency investigated 310 unruly flyer incidents.
The FAA is now turning to social media to remind flyers how to act when traveling on an aircraft. Administrator Steve Dickson recorded a message to flyers in mid-July reminding them of the airline’s zero tolerance policy and what could happen if they act up in flight. The FAA is also using social media messaging – like the one above – to remind flyers to be on their best behavior while traveling.
Airlines and Experts Look for Solutions to Curb Unruly Passenger Incidents
As the number of incidents continues to rise, both aviation experts and airlines are working on solutions to reduce tensions and ensure smooth flights. Some suggest continuing the alcohol ban aboard aircraft, which could help to reduce problems fueled by inebriation.
You’re Reading
A fine is a price. It says, "you can behave like this so long as you pay x fee." Fines should be a percentage of income or net worth. The $9000 fine for not wearing a mask is a big deal for some people but not others. A percentage would affect all fined people equally.
When a passenger actually pays a fine, where does that money go? Should some go to the airline and employees that had to endure the pain, time spent with the passenger and added cost. Passengers should be able to recoup monies for being exposed to unruly customers and if a flight delay occurs then additional payments should follow. Things were so much nicer when people used common sense, dressed appropriately and followed the rules. Now you have to be on guard all the time from unruly passengers to terrorist.