Jet2's Managing Director Steve Heapy has launched a scathing attack on what he describes as "absolutely disgraceful" passenger behaviour that has left airline staff facing physical assaults and verbal abuse during the ongoing travel chaos.
In an exclusive interview, the travel boss revealed shocking details of the incidents plaguing UK airports, with staff being subjected to treatment he called "completely unacceptable" as the summer holiday season reaches its peak.
Physical Assaults and Airport Mayhem
Heapy disclosed that the situation has deteriorated to the point where crew members have been physically assaulted by frustrated travellers. "We've had people physically assaulting our crew, and that is just not acceptable," he stated, emphasising the zero-tolerance approach the airline is taking towards such behaviour.
The travel chief didn't mince words when describing the scenes unfolding at airports across the country. "We've had people being drunk and disorderly, we've had people fighting in the airport - it's just absolutely disgraceful," Heapy told reporters.
Zero Tolerance Approach
Jet2 has taken a firm stance against the misconduct, with Heapy confirming that passengers displaying unacceptable behaviour are being removed from flights and banned from future travel with the airline.
"We will not hesitate to remove people from the aircraft if they are not behaving appropriately," he warned. The company has implemented a strict policy of refusing to carry passengers who arrive at the airport intoxicated or display aggressive behaviour towards staff.
Industry-Wide Travel Disruption
The comments come amid widespread travel disruption affecting major airports across the UK. Airlines and airports have been struggling with staff shortages following pandemic-era layoffs, leading to flight cancellations, long queues, and lost luggage.
Heapy acknowledged the frustration travellers are experiencing but stressed that this doesn't excuse the abusive behaviour towards frontline staff who are working under immense pressure.
Calls for Passenger Responsibility
The Jet2 boss issued a direct appeal to travellers to behave responsibly and show respect to airline employees. "Our crew are there to look after you and get you on holiday safely. They don't deserve to be treated like this," he emphasised.
He reminded passengers that airline staff are working tirelessly to resolve the situation and ensure everyone can enjoy their well-deserved holidays despite the operational challenges.
The travel industry continues to face significant hurdles as it attempts to recover from the pandemic, with passenger behaviour emerging as a critical concern alongside staffing and operational issues.
