Ryanair has initiated legal action against a passenger who caused a disturbance on flight FR2001 from Lanzarote to Santiago on January 17. The disruption led to a 40-minute delay, affecting 137 passengers on board.
According to Ryanair, the passenger attempted to take a seat that was not assigned to him and refused to show his boarding pass when requested by the cabin crew. The man, who claimed to be a United Nations diplomat and invoked diplomatic immunity, was ultimately removed from the flight by the Guardia Civil (Civil Guard).
Ryanair maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct on board and has decided to take legal action. The airline has initiated a private criminal prosecution against the passenger through the Spanish courts. Potential penalties range from three to twelve months in prison to a fine equivalent to six to eighteen months’ salary.
A Ryanair spokesperson stated that the airline is using this case as an example to prevent future disruptions on flights. “It is unacceptable for passengers, including families on vacation, to experience delays due to the behavior of a single individual. We hope this case will serve as a deterrent, ensuring that both passengers and crew can travel in a comfortable and respectful environment.”