Low-cost leisure carrier Jet2.com said it has issued a lifetime ban to an allegedly disruptive passenger Chloe Haines and billed her more than £85,000 after one of its flights was diverted.
The airline said her “extremely disruptive behaviour” led to a flight on 22 June from London Stansted to Dalaman being diverted and the RAF having to scramble two Typhoon fighters to escort the aircraft.
Jet2 said Miss Haines displayed a “catalogue of aggressive, abusive and dangerous behaviour on the aircraft, which included attempting to open the aircraft doors during the flight”.
The airline said its highly trained crew restrained Miss Haines with the help of customers, whilst the aircraft – which was supposed to be flying to Turkey – was diverted back to London Stansted. In their rush to escort the aircraft, the RAF fighter jets created a sonic boom which could be heard for miles around.
On arrival at London Stansted, police arrested Miss Haines on suspicion of assault and endangering an aircraft. The carrier said it is supporting the authorities with their investigation. The woman has been released on bail until 21 August.
Jet2.com chief executive officer, Steve Heapy said her behaviour “was one of the most serious cases of disruptive passenger behaviour that we have experienced”.
He added: “She must now face up to the consequences of her actions, and we will vigorously pursue to recover the costs that we incurred as a result of this divert, as we do with all disruptive passengers.”
