According to the Irish Aviation Authority, reports of disruptive passenger behaviour at Dublin Airport have surged by 80% so far this year compared to the total number of such incidents in 2024, reports RTE.
With the airport bracing for its busiest weekend on record, a new campaign has been launched by the aviation sector to tackle this rising issue.
In just the first five months of 2025, more than 30 incidents of disruptive behaviour have been managed by gardaà stationed at Dublin Airport, reports RTE.
This marks an 80% increase from all of 2024, which itself had already seen a 50% rise from the numbers recorded in 2023.
The most frequent problems have involved offensive conduct, interference or assaults on officials, and intoxication while on board flights, reports RTE.
As over 500,000 passengers are expected to pass through Dublin Airport this weekend, the aviation sector has united to launch the #Notonmyflight campaign to raise awareness.
Garda Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region, Paul Cleary, highlighted that such behaviour puts both passengers and crew at risk, and can cause flight delays or missed connections.
“There is no excuse for anti-social or disruptive behaviour. Over the past year we have been working with our aviation partners under a joint declaration to address disruptive and dangerous behaviour, and we remain very committed to that. While the majority of people travel respectfully, An Garda SÃochána is prepared to act where necessary to ensure a safe and secure environment for all who travel through our airports,” reports RTE.
Fórsa trade union’s national secretary, Katie Morgan, described disorderly passenger conduct as a major occupational health and safety issue.
“We’ve seen first-hand the effect that some unruly passenger behaviour has had on our members. Aviation workers have a right to a safe working environment and to be treated with dignity and respect. They prioritise the travelling public’s safety, and this campaign helps prioritise their safety,” reports RTE.
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