A British Airways cabin crew member has been spared jail after a shocking mid-air incident where he was found naked and speaking gibberish in an aircraft toilet, having taken crystal meth.
The event unfolded on a flight from London Heathrow to San Francisco, causing significant disruption and concern amongst passengers and crew. The 39-year-old attendant, Christopher John Morris, was discovered in a state of undress and extreme delirium.
A Disturbing Mid-Air Discovery
Fellow crew members became alarmed when Morris locked himself in the lavatory for an extended period. Upon forcing entry, they made the shocking discovery of his condition. His speech was described as incoherent and nonsensical, a classic symptom of methamphetamine intoxication.
The captain of the flight was immediately notified of the serious situation unfolding onboard. The incident forced the senior crew to manage both the safety of the distressed employee and the growing anxiety of the passengers.
Court Hears Mitigating Circumstances
At Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, the defence presented a case for mitigation. The court heard that Morris had been struggling with severe personal issues, including the breakdown of a long-term relationship, which had led him to substance abuse.
District Judge Lynne Matthews acknowledged these mitigating factors. Despite the seriousness of the offence, which endangered the aircraft, the judge handed down a 12-month community order with a rehabilitation requirement and 100 hours of unpaid work.
Airline's Zero-Tolerance Stance
In the wake of the incident, a spokesperson for British Airways reiterated the airline's strict zero-tolerance policy towards drug use amongst its staff. The company stated that such behaviour "falls well below the standard we expect" and confirmed that the individual is no longer employed by the airline.
This case has sent ripples through the aviation industry, highlighting the immense pressure faced by cabin crew and the critical importance of strict safety protocols on commercial flights.
