Ryanair sues 'unruly' passenger over flight diversion

Ryanair is taking legal action against a passenger who allegedly caused significant disruption on a flight from Dublin to Lanzarote. The airline is seeking £12,500 in compensation to cover the costs incurred when the plane had to divert to Porto, Portugal.

Ryanair announced on Wednesday that it has initiated legal proceedings against the passenger, whose behavior on the flight last April was described as "inexcusable" and "completely unacceptable." Ryanair stated that it will "continue to take decisive action against unruly passenger behavior on board" to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

The airline stated that the passenger's actions forced the flight in question to divert to Porto and be delayed there overnight, causing 160 passengers to "face unnecessary disruption and the loss of a full day of their holiday." The compensation being sought will cover the costs of overnight accommodation and other expenses for the passengers affected by the diversion.

Ryanair announced on its website that this was a "significant blow," with a spokesperson stating: "It is unacceptable that passengers—many of whom were enjoying a relaxing summer break with family or friends—should suffer unnecessary disruption and a reduction in their holiday time due to the actions of one unruly passenger." The airline added that it hopes the civil action in the Irish courts will deter further disruptive behavior on future flights. The passenger's name has not been released.

Under EU law, passengers are entitled to compensation if a flight within the EU is canceled or delayed by three hours or more. If overnight accommodation is required, hotel accommodation must be provided free of charge, as well as transport between the hotel and airport, and free meals and refreshments. A passenger who disrupted a Ryanair flight to Athens in 2020 was found guilty in a Greek court last month and given a five-month suspended sentence, as well as a €400 ($412) fine. BBC News has asked Ryanair for comment on the details of the incident.