Hen and stag groups have been warned by the aviation industry not to “drink irresponsibly” at airports before boarding their flights.
The government-backed ‘One Too Many’ campaign said its research showed that groups, including hen and stag parties, were responsible for two-thirds of all alcohol-related disruptive incidents at UK airports.
The campaign stresses that disruptive behaviour caused by drinking will not be tolerated and passengers risk being denied boarding, heavy fines, an airline ban and fees of up to £80,000 for the most serious onboard incidents.
It comes ahead of the summer closing party season, which attracts groups travelling to destinations such as Ibiza.
Both Ryanair and Jet2.com have suggested measures such as a two-drink limit linked to passengers’ boarding passes to ensure they can’t drink excessively before flights. Other suggestions have included selling duty free alcohol in sealed packaging to ensure it cannot be drunk in-flight.
Francois Bourienne, chair of the UK Travel Retail Forum, said: “Cases of serious disruptive behaviour are not just limited to younger parties of lads and girls but over the summer period they have been found to be an at-risk group.
“Traditionally, late September and October is a popular time for single travellers taking advantage of cheaper flights or jetting off for end of season parties. We want to particularly remind these groups that consequences will be enforced and that means the party could end before you reach your destination.”
The One Too Many campaign was launched in July by aviation minister Baroness Sugg – participating airport operators include Manchester Airport Group, Gatwick, Newcastle, Bristol and Birmingham.
The campaign is promoted in airports across digital screens and displays, notices in food and beverage outlets, and police leaflets.