Calls for alcohol ban on airlines amid violence

A charity has called for all alcohol to be banned on Australian airlines following a spate of violent incidents mid-air.

Australian airlines have been urged by a charity to ban the sale of all alcohol on their flights

According to The Herald Sun, anti-alcohol organisation Drug Arm Australia has urged for all alcohol to be banned on planes, and even airports, claiming such action would “reduce the risk and harms associated with alcohol use and increase the safety of both passengers and crew”.

The calls follow a number of incidents in which intoxicated passengers have become violent mid-flight.

Last month, a Virgin Australia flight travelling from Brisbane to Darwin was diverted after a passenger became abusive, while Qantas plan flying from Bangkok to Sydney was diverted to Cairns after a man tried to steal alcohol before becoming violent.

While under Australian aviation laws, flight crews must be trained on the responsible service of alcohol, individual diversions can cost airlines tens of thousands of pounds.

Both Qantas and Virgin Australia have, however, claimed to be satisfied that their service of alcohol to passengers is responsible.

A spokesperson for Qantas told The Herald Sun: “Offering alcohol on board our planes and in our lounges is part of Qantas’ premium service and it is valued by our customers.

“However we take a zero tolerance approach towards anti-social and aggressive behaviour and for any actions that could compromise the safety of anyone on board a Qantas group aircraft.”