Emergency Landing in Toulouse After Disruptive Passengers
A Ryanair flight traveling from London-luton to Alicante was forced to divert to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in France last Friday following disruptive behavior from a group of passengers. french authorities have detained a British man who is now facing potential charges, including up to five years in prison, related to an alleged attempt to open an emergency exit door mid-flight.
According to investigating sources, the incident began with a group identified as a stag party exhibiting disruptive and intoxicated behavior. Despite repeated warnings from the cabin crew, one individual allegedly attempted to open an emergency exit. The pilot subsequently contacted French authorities, leading to the emergency landing.
Upon arrival at Toulouse-Blagnac, officers from the Air Transport Gendarmerie Company (CGTA) boarded the aircraft and apprehended the primary suspect, along with approximately four others from the group. The suspect was initially held to allow for sobriety,with a substantially elevated blood alcohol level delaying initial questioning.
A video circulating on social media, reportedly taken by a passenger, appears to show the arrest of the individuals involved. Passengers reported observing the group drinking alcohol in the departure lounge prior to boarding and struggling to remain upright. One passenger described multiple instances of fighting and refusal to comply with crew instructions.
Following the removal of the disruptive passengers, the flight was cleared to resume its journey to Alicante, departing Toulouse at 10:15 pm local time.
CGTA commander Ludovic Fornari commended the professionalism of his team and the cooperating French units. A Ryanair spokesperson confirmed the diversion and reiterated the airline’s zero-tolerance policy for unacceptable passenger behavior, stating the company is committed to ensuring safe and enjoyable travel for all passengers and crew. The detained man is currently the subject of a judicial enquiry.