John Reynolds: Why are so many folk flying off the handle in air rage incidents?

Society is definitely changing and not necessarily for the better.

I believe a lack of discipline and a lack of respect for others is high on the list of reasons for this.

I think we acknowledge these gradual changes, but did you know that according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) incidents of air rage on UK airlines are on the increase, with disruptive behaviour by passengers being reported all over the world.

However, the spike in the UK has led one airline to consider banning the sale of alcohol on its flights.

Fortunately neither Helen nor I have been on a flight where this sort of behaviour has been obvious, but according to some reports there have been 386 “dangerous” incidents involving passengers over the last two years on flights operated by UK-based airlines.

This shows a dramatic increase on 2013, when there were only 85.

Air rage seems to fit into two main categories, infighting among passengers and failed attempts to open aircraft doors.

However, the four-fold increase in passenger incidents in just two years is alarming for many of us who choose to fly.

There is no definitive answer as to why the increase in passenger misbehaviour has become so pronounced, but alcohol does play a major part in a number of the incidents reported.

It’s alarming how people, who are normally very subdued, become more aggressive with a drink.

Obviously there are travellers who are nervous about flying and partake of a pre-board drink, but that’s not the problem.

What is the problem is excessive drinking before and during the flight, with some passengers becoming aggressive if cabin crew refuse them more alcoholic drinks.

No one wants to see airlines banning alcohol on their flights, as everyone will suffer because of the selfish minority of travellers who find it necessary to get drunk. Drinking in moderation is the name of the game and will hopefully result in an enjoyable flight for all concerned.