British Airways has introduced stricter rules regarding photography on its flights, warning passengers that taking photos or videos of crew members without their consent could result in removal from the aircraft. The updated policy, outlined in section 11a of the airline's 'behaviour on the aircraft' conditions, grants the carrier the authority to take 'any measures' it deems reasonable to prevent such behaviour.
New Restrictions on Photography
The airline stated: 'If, while you are on board the aircraft, we reasonably believe that you have filmed, live-streamed or photographed our crew or other colleagues without their consent, we may take any measures we think reasonable to prevent you continuing your behaviour.' Passengers who fail to comply may be asked to leave the plane upon landing, refused carriage on remaining sectors of their journey, or reported to relevant authorities for potential prosecution.
Diversion Costs
British Airways also warned that if unacceptable behaviour leads to a diversion, the passenger responsible will be required to pay the 'reasonable and proper costs' of diverting the aircraft to an unscheduled destination and disembarking them.
What Is Still Allowed?
Despite the crackdown, passengers are not entirely banned from taking photos. They may still capture personal highlights such as their seat, window view, cabin features, meals, drinks, and other non-crew subjects, provided they do not film crew members or other passengers without consent. This applies equally to content creators and casual holidaymakers.
British Airways is not alone in enforcing such rules. Ryanair's terms and conditions similarly state: 'Recording or photographing our personnel, whether at the airport or onboard the plane, without their consent is strictly prohibited. Only recordings or photographs personal to you may be permitted.'
Travel journalist Amy Jones reported the update, noting that the policy aims to protect crew privacy while allowing passengers to document their journeys responsibly.
