A Ryanair flight from Dublin to Amsterdam was forced to abort its take-off after a man from Belfast allegedly assaulted a member of the cabin crew. The incident occurred on Friday's scheduled 6.25 pm flight, as the aircraft was taxiing and about to depart.
Christopher Tinsley, 34, of Shankill Road, Belfast, appeared before Judge John Hughes at Dublin District Court on Saturday. He is charged with assault causing harm to a male flight attendant. Additionally, he faces two charges under the Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Act, 1998, for alleged onboard disruption, including being intoxicated to a degree that endangered safety and engaging in threatening, abusive, or insulting behaviour.
Garda Ahmed Bilal reported that the pilot steered the plane away from the runway after Tinsley became disruptive. The victim sustained a visible injury to his face and has provided a formal witness statement. Garda Bilal opposed bail, citing flight risk as the accused resides outside the jurisdiction.
Defence barrister Kevin McCrave argued for bail, stating that his client is a self-employed painter, presumed innocent, and would comply with conditions. Judge Hughes granted bail with strict conditions: Tinsley must deposit €500 of a €1,000 bond, provide an independent surety of €1,000 (half in cash), surrender his passport, avoid Dublin Airport, and sign on weekly at Dundalk Garda Station.
Tinsley, who has not yet entered a plea, was remanded in custody with consent to bail. He is due to appear again on Wednesday while gardaí seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Legal aid was granted.
