It is in a way much easier to intervene if somebody poses a clear physical danger to himself, the aircraft or the passengers and crew. Reasonable physical force may then be used, the person may be restrained, locked up and if necessary sedated.

It gets trickier when the problems are caused by a little old lady or a drunk who is "only" being extremely obnoxious and distruptive. Such a person could of course speedily be overpowered and handcuffed, which might have a sobering effect. On the other hand, it might make matters worse. Tough judgment call, especially for cabin crew who lack the professional training and experience required.

Johan