Passengers said Thursday’s Glasgow Prestwick service descended into “absolute chaos” after a man started “pestering” a hen party, Glasgow’s Evening Times reported.
Two men traded blows before cabin crew and other passengers broke up the scuffle.
The aircraft was met by police when it touched down in Madrid before continuing onwards to Malaga.
A Ryanair spokesperson said: “The flight from Glasgow Prestwick to Malaga diverted to Madrid, and the crew requested police assistance upon arrival after a passenger became disruptive in-flight.
“The aircraft landed normally and police removed and detained an individual before the aircraft continued to Malaga.
“We will not tolerate unruly or disruptive behaviour at any time, and the safety and comfort of our customers, crew and aircraft is our number one-priority. This is now a matter for local police.”