France has launched a stringent new crackdown on disruptive and antisocial behaviour aboard aircraft, introducing severe financial penalties and potential flight bans for offenders.
Hefty Fines and Flying Prohibitions
Under Decree No. 2025-1063, which took effect on 8 November, rowdy passengers in French airspace now face administrative fines of up to €20,000 (approximately £17,600). The French Minister for Civil Aviation holds the power to issue penalties of up to €10,000 (£8,810) for a single offence, doubling to the maximum €20,000 for repeat offenders.
For the most extreme cases, individuals could be prohibited from flying for a period of up to four years. This decisive action is a direct response to the growing concern within the aviation industry regarding passenger misconduct, aiming to safeguard the well-being of everyone on board.
A New Framework for Reporting and Enforcement
The decree outlines a specific list of offences that will trigger these sanctions. These include:
- Ignoring safety instructions from the cabin crew.
- Using electronic devices when explicitly prohibited during the flight.
- Any action that jeopardises the flight crew's ability to perform their critical safety duties.
To support this new regime, French air carriers will be able to report incidents of 'harmful behaviour' via a new, dedicated database managed by the French Civil Authority.
Government and Industry Backing
Philippe Tabarot, France's Minister of Transport, has championed the ruling, describing it as a 'swift, fair, and proportionate enforcement' of existing laws. He stated unequivocally, 'Disruptive behaviour on board aircraft is unacceptable.'
He further emphasised that the new regulatory framework sends a strong message that such conduct will no longer be tolerated and will be met with effective administrative sanctions. This move by France follows a similar initiative from Ryanair, which in July announced its own major clampdown on unruly behaviour, including a £500 fine for passengers who cause disruptions leading to delays.
