Unruly Passenger Incidents Soar 47% Despite Crackdown

In-flight disturbances caused by passengers are on the rise according to a new report.
Most incidents involved non-compliance with crew instructions, verbal abuse, or intoxication, though physical abuse also increased 61%.
The rise in incidents comes despite the FAA issuing a zero-tolerance policy against disruptive behavior in 2021 that can result in heavy fines or jail time.
Smoking, failing to fasten seat belts, over-packing carry-on bags, and drinking outside alcohol were the most common non-compliance issues reported.
Experts say a combination of stress, politics, and social issues may be fueling the uptick in unruly passenger events worldwide.